We all know it's important to "shop small." When you shop at a small business, you're NOT ONLY helping the local entrepreneur, you're supporting their investment into OUR COMMUNITY. Dollars spent at a local business mean more dollars are spent here in Michigan to hire workers, frequent other businesses and support our neighborhoods.

But sometimes we don't "shop small" as much as we'd like.

During the busy holiday season, it's sometimes easier to shop online. That can be especially true when we're trying to buy some specific item off of someone's holiday wish list. And before you know it, our porches are full of cardboard boxes and we're feeling that holiday tug that doesn't get enough attention – Amazon shopping guilt. 

But It's not too late!

First, if you are still doing some holiday shopping, you can head to some local shops to spread some last-minute holiday cheer. Second, you can make a donation to Michigan Women Forward. 

Since our founding in 1986, we learned that one of the best ways to champion economic equity for women was to help support local entrepreneurs. How do women get a bigger piece of the prosperity pie? By owning their own business! As a CDFI (Community Development Foundation Institution), we help small businesses obtain capital to achieve their business goals. We also provide grants to women entrepreneurs to help them make their business dreams a reality. 

Last year, we ... 

• Invested $1.8 million in Michigan small businesses.
• Awarded 77 business pitch competition grants.
• Helped 800 Michigan entrepreneurs fulfill their American dream.

Women like Mikiah Westbrook. Her popular Brix Wine Boutique closed because of a landlord dispute. But thanks to her hard work and Michigan Women Forward, she was able to reopen this year in Detroit’s growing Rivertown community.

Click here to donate today! Just $10 will make a huge difference.