History: Incorporated in the State of Michigan on November 20, 1995, received 501(c)(3) status from the Internal Revenue Service on May 16, 1996. Hired first Executive Director in November of 1996. The organization has been providing business plan trainings and operating a revolving loan fund for ten years.

Mission: To provide opportunities for entrepreneurs starting or expanding a small business in Mid Michigan, by offering business plan and financial literacy trainings, a loan program, and networking opportunities.

Programs delivered to the community: Business Plan Training: A two Business Plan Training Courses for individuals interested in starting a small business or expanding an existing small business. We use the following curriculums:

  NxLeLvel’™ 15-week Business Plan Basics, Guide for Micro-Entrepreneurs

First business plan training session was held in August of 1996. Since that time 26 trainings have offered, 504 have enrolled and 83% of those enrolled completing the trainings.

Micro-Loans: Loans are intended to assist entrepreneurs who are not able to obtain credit offered through tradition financial institutions. Loans of $500 - $10,000 are available upon approval to applicants who meet requirements. First loan was disbursed in the fall of 1997.

Total number of loans approved: 30

Total dollar amount of funds disbursed: $ 174,075

Basic Personal Financial Literacy: This is a new program and it began in the fall of 2005 for Lansing Housing Commission’s Family Self-Sufficient participants. The materials used for this program are: Credit When Credit is Due (CWCID). This program is in the early stages of development.