63 Michigan Small Businesses Receive $1.49M in Grants

Michigan Governor Announces New Grants to Support Small Businesses

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced that 63 small businesses across Michigan will receive support through the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) with $1.49 million in grants. This funding comes from the MEDC’s Match on Main program, which aims to strengthen downtowns and support place-based businesses.

The program provides up to $25,000 in funding for new or expanding businesses located in core downtown and commercial areas. The Fiscal Year 2025 application period saw a record number of participants, with 133 applicants from 59 different organizations. This is the highest participation rate in the program's history.

"Michigan’s small businesses are the heart of our downtowns," said Governor Whitmer. "Today’s Match on Main grants will provide 63 small businesses across the state with the support they need to grow, thrive, and create bustling, vibrant main streets. By investing in our communities and developing attractive places across the state, we will continue to make Michigan a place where businesses and families choose to locate, grow and succeed."

Amy Rencher, Senior Vice President of Small Business & Talent at MEDC, emphasized the importance of the program. "Match on Main is a critical tool for supporting place-based small businesses and communities across Michigan, serving as a catalyst in driving small business investment and opportunities for growth. Since 2019, we’ve made a significant impact on small businesses and our local communities through the Match on Main program, with $17 million in private investment leveraged from awarded businesses and hundreds of jobs created and retained. Through Match on Main, we’re continuing to foster economic growth throughout the state one entrepreneur at a time."

Among the grantees, 17 are new businesses, and 46 are existing ones. These include 20 restaurants, 22 retail establishments, four service businesses, and 17 other businesses focused on revitalizing community infrastructure and boosting local employment. Additionally, 50 of the selected businesses are located in geographically disadvantaged areas.

Several businesses in the TV5 viewing area have received funding:

• Bay City: Bonejacked Vintage received $13,070.75.
• City of East Tawas: Total Human Resources, Relax LLC received $25,000.
• City of Houghton: Cork & Beans, LLC and Beviamo Vino each received $25,000.
• City of Laingsburg Downtown Development Authority: DG Hair Design received $25,000.
• City of Tawas: Tawas Axe N Lanes, LLC received $25,000.
• Lapeer Downtown Development Authority: The Doghouse Coffee LLC received $25,000.
• Middle Michigan Development Corporation – Clare: Cardinal & Clover, LLC received $25,000.
• Middle Michigan Development Corporation – Harrison: Residential and Commercial Marketing, LLC received $14,865.30.
• Middle Michigan Development Corporation - Mt Pleasant: Mt. Pleasant School of Dance received $22,756.91.
• Owosso Downtown Development Authority: Amy’s Place Limited Liability Company received $25,000.
• Saginaw Downtown Development Authority: CWC Property Holdings LLC and Savoy Bar & Grill each received $25,000.
• Village of Cass City: The Oak Room CC LLC and The Oak Room received $25,000.
• West Branch Township: Klemmer’s Processing LLC received $25,000.

These grants highlight the ongoing commitment to fostering economic growth and supporting small businesses across Michigan. The Match on Main program continues to play a vital role in revitalizing communities and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and residents alike.