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Bay Future Focus: November 2020

November 4, 2020

Michigan Business Network

President & CEO’s Message

This is a time of year to be thankful. Regardless of circumstance, there is always something to be grateful for. We have seen firsthand the financial hardship many of our Bay County small businesses have experienced over the last 8 months and have worked diligently to alleviate that strain and burden. The success of the Buy BC program, with a cash injection of over $120,000 to the 70+ participating businesses, is one example. We are thankful and grateful for both the sponsors of the program and the community members who participated by purchasing gift cards and spending their dollars locally.

“When we applied for the Buy BC program we weren’t sure what it entailed, I just knew customers could get a $25 gift card for $20. What it did was promote us across all Bay County and people throughout the community learned who we were because of the marketing program Bay Future and the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce put together. It gave customers an added benefit to come try us out and we didn’t have to reduce our profits for them to receive that,” said Tina Goodman, Owner of The Tipsy Cowboy.

Pictured above are sisters and owners of the Tipsy Cowboy, 116 W Pinconning Rd., Pinconning, MI, Janice Hebert and Tina Goodman

“When we were able to re-open after being shut down, we were struggling and needed an extra push. When we received a check after gift cards started selling, I was in shock. This program helped get us back on our feet and helped to market our business to other people in Bay County so they would know who we are. Thank you to the sponsors for giving to the program. Thank you to Bay Area Chamber of Commerce and Bay Future for helping us increase our sales and for helping to market our business!”

To read more, click here for the full press release.

Happy reading and stay safe,

-Trevor Keyes, EDFP
President & CEO
Bay Future, Inc.

Featured Content

Bay Future, Inc. receives $25,000 from Consumers Energy Foundation

Bay Future, Inc. was selected by the Consumers Energy Foundation to receive a $25,000 grant for economic development support. These grants, totaling $535,000, are being provided across Michigan through 21 organizations that support small business customers with assistance programs, with a focus on women- and minority-owned businesses.

“We are extremely appreciative and humbled to receive these grant funds. As we work to assist small businesses through the changes of each day, so too does Consumers Energy. The financial support from Consumers Energy illuminates this fact, but it also highlights their partnership and commitment to not only our community, but dedication to the recovery of our entire state,” said Trevor Keyes, President & CEO of Bay Future, Inc.

The Consumers Energy Foundation is the charitable arm of Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider. The Foundation enables communities to thrive and grow by investing in what’s most important to Michigan – its people, our planet and Michigan’s prosperity. In 2019, the Consumers Energy Foundation, Consumers Energy, its employees and retirees contributed more than $11.5 million to Michigan nonprofits. For more information, visit www.ConsumersEnergy.com/foundation.

Featured Event

Coming Home

Do you know someone who is interested in relocating back to Michigan? Help them come home!

We are excited to announce this year’s Coming Home event is happening in just a few short weeks, with a virtual twist. We will be joining 9 other regions across the state of Michigan to host the Back to Michigan virtual networking event to get job seekers and hiring managers connected.

To register visit: https://discovergreatlakesbay.com/coming-home/

Investor Spotlight

The Huntington National Bank

“Huntington has never been more focused on looking out for small businesses who put in countless hours, face unique challenges, and impact [their or our] community exponentially.

That’s why I am proud to introduce Huntington’s Lift Local Business program. As part of our recently announced Community Plan, we are committing $25 million to support women, veterans, and racially and ethnically diverse businesses in accessing the capital they need to start or grow their business.

As the #1 Small Business Administration (SBA) lender in our region for the past 12 years†, we developed this expanded program to help in breaking down the barriers to traditional financing that diverse businesses often face.

Features include:

Access to capital at a low cost to the business
Zero origination fees
Huntington pays SBA fees
Lower credit score requirements
Free financial education courses ($1,500 value)

Welcome means Welcome to All at Huntington.”

-Seth Perigo

Community President Great Lakes Bay Region

Click here for more information on Huntington’s Lift Local Business Program

Thank you Huntington for your focus on Small Business and your commitment to economic development in Bay County!

Program Highlight

Going PRO: Application window is open NOW!

The Going PRO Talent Fund provides competitive awards to employers to assist in training, developing, and retaining current and newly hired employees.

Click here for more information.

Future for Frontliners

Future for Frontliners provides eligible frontline workers with tuition-free access to pursue an associate degree or a certificate at their local community college. New and current Delta College students may be eligible. As a partner in this program, Delta is ready to assist you through the application process.