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Michigan Economic Development Corporation NEWSLETTER

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Find Your Small Business Support Hub
 

There are 27 Support Hubs across the state that help entrepreneurs navigate Michigan’s small business ecosystem and gain awareness of federal, state and local resources. These efforts include comprehensive programming and direct support to small businesses, whether it’s helping develop a business plan to secure funding, growing a customer base and industry connections, or hiring and managing employees.

 
 
 
 
Apply Now: SBA Disaster Loans Available for Northern Michigan Businesses
 
 

The Small Business Administration (SBA) has issued a disaster declaration for Cheboygan, Emmet, Presque Isle, Charlevoix, Otsego, Montmorency, and Mackinac counties following the severe ice storm in March. Affected small businesses and residents may now apply for low-interest disaster loans.

Available loan types include:

  • Business Physical Disaster Loans: For repairing or replacing damaged property, inventory, equipment, or real estate. (Deadline: August 8, 2025)
  • Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL): For working capital needs due to the disaster’s impact. (Deadline: March 9, 2026)
  • Home Disaster Loans: For homeowners and renters replacing damaged property or vehicles.

Business owners can also receive loan application assistance through the Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC).

Learn more and apply on the MySBA Loan Portal ➔

Request an SBDC support appointment ➔

 

 

 
 
 
Partner Spotlight: Centrepolis Accelerator Powers Michigan Mobility
 
 

Centrepolis Accelerator, a key player in Michigan’s innovation ecosystem, continues to help startups grow through resources like the Make It in Michigan Mobility Prototyping Grant. The Centrepolis Accelerator, based in Southeast Michigan and housed at Lawrence Technological University, drives the growth of small manufacturers and hardware startups by providing funding, prototyping facilities, design engineering, business strategy tools, mentorship, and workspace. It operates as part of Michigan’s “SmartZone” ecosystem, helping entrepreneurs bring physical products to market domestically and accelerate commercialization through grant programs and expert support.

 
 
 
 
Fall UnDemo Day® Returns to Ford Field
 
 

Mark your calendar for Oct. 1, 2025. Renaissance Venture Capital’s Fall UnDemo Day® is back and bigger than ever. This unique event connects Michigan startups with venture capitalists in curated 1:1 meetings designed to spark investment and accelerate growth. Startups from across the state can now apply to participate.

Apply now 

Event details ➔ 

 
 
 
 
New Identity: University Research Corridor Rebrands
 
 

The University Research Corridor — comprising Michigan State University, the University of Michigan, Wayne State University, and Michigan Technological University — has rebranded as Research Universities for Michigan (RU4M). The new name reflects a deep commitment to driving statewide impact through research, innovation, and collaboration.

 
 
 
 
 
 
Success Story: Blueflite Advances Drone Logistics from Michigan
 
 

Based in Troy, Blueflite is transforming how goods are delivered through its innovative drone-based logistics platform. With a focus on speed, sustainability, and accessibility, Blueflite designs and manufactures drones that can deliver essential items, like medical supplies and industrial parts, faster and more efficiently.

Backed by MEDC support, Blueflite continues to grow its operations in Michigan, attracting new partners and driving innovation in the future of mobility.

 
 
 
 
What does the MEDC do for Small Businesses and Talent?
 
 

These informative videos show how the MEDC helps businesses grow and connects talent with opportunity across Michigan.

 
 
Amy Rencher smiles in a webcam image.
 

Small Business Services Webinar

 
Learn how entrepreneurs across the state are accessing funding, personalized guidance, and statewide resources to scale their businesses. The MEDC meets business owners where they are and helps them get where they want to go.
 
 
A slide about contacting the MEDC, with Spencer Lucker as the speaker.
 

Talent Solutions Webinar

 
See how the MEDC partners with employers, educators, and workforce organizations to attract and develop top talent. Together, they’re building a future-ready workforce through strategic collaboration.
 
 
 
Upcoming Events
 
 

If you have questions or ideas for what you’d like to see in future newsletters, reply to this email or reach out to your MEDC contact. Thanks for helping Michigan businesses thrive.

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