The Match on Main program continues to energize Michigan’s small business landscape. With 133 applications from 59 communities — the highest participation rate in program history — the MEDC has doubled its investment in Match on Main for 2025.

This place-based grant initiative supports business recruitment and retention efforts in Redevelopment Ready and Main Street communities. Since 2019, it has proven to be a catalyst for small business growth and downtown revitalization.

SSBCI Fuels Venture Capital and Startup Momentum

The Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) Board recently approved up to $11 million to boost early-stage healthcare innovation in the state through a new investment in Venture Investors Health Fund VII. This Michigan-focused fund will back high-growth startups advancing healthcare solutions, strengthening our position as a hub for medical innovation. The investment is part of the state’s $236 million State Small Business Credit Initiative, which has already delivered more than $150 million in capital and support to small businesses across Michigan since 2023.

Beasley Media Group Small Business Grant Program

Beasley Media Group, one of the MEDC’s partner organizations, has launched a new Small Business Grant Program designed to support Detroit-based businesses with funding and promotional opportunities. Participating companies may be eligible for on-air advertising, mentorship, and expanded exposure through Beasley’s platform.

Community Spotlight: Payload’s Continued Growth

Payload, the Grand Rapids-based content management system, continues to make waves as one of Michigan’s most promising startups. From its early days at Start Garden to being acquired by Figma, Payload’s journey reflects the power of Michigan’s SmartZones, community support, and innovation culture.

Statewide Virtual Coaching Program for Entrepreneurs

Michigan Women Forward, in partnership with Operations School, has launched The Forward Program, Michigan’s first all-virtual, statewide small business coaching initiative for entrepreneurs. This six-month program will support up to 20 founders in scaling their operations, developing leadership skills, and preparing for funding. Designed for businesses ready to secure loans of up to $50,000, The Forward Program provides structured guidance to help navigate the loan process and build sustainable growth.

Social Spotlight: Avni Barman on Michigan’s Startup Momentum

Entrepreneur, investor, and advisor Avni Barman — known for her work supporting early-stage founders — recently highlighted Michigan’s growing startup ecosystem on LinkedIn. She made several great stops from Femology to Plum Health to Centrepolis—calling out the key resources provided by the ecosystem partners for founders. Her tour underscored how Michigan’s collaborative hubs and innovators are turning big ideas into real-world impact.

Aug. 14: Michigan Manufacturers Association Excellence Awards Nomination Deadline

Sept. 4-5: CoCreate 2025

Sept. 15-20: Grand Rapids Tech Week

Sept. 18: LIFT Detroit: Accelerating Material Innovation for Competitive Advantage & Expanding the Defense Industrial Base

Sept. 24-Oct. 3: A2Tech360 Week

Sept. 30: Manu-Tech Innovation Summit

Oct. 1: Renaissance Venture Capital Fall UnDemo Day

Oct. 6-9: Trade Mission to Québec

Nov. 17-20: Trade Mission to MEDICA

Dec. 5-11: Trade Mission to Saudi Arabia and the UAE