Program Benefits

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• No cost to participate.

• Join the growing group of successful businesses- LIFT ME cohort graduates.

• Develop a custom work plan, with trackable milestones.

• Peer discussions to build community connections, develop skills, and collaborate with program participants. 

• Designated CMURC Account Manager for project management. 

• Weekly Strategize Me Virtual sessions. 

• Opportunity to network with executives, local business owners, and community members at weekly networking perks. 

• Access to technical assistance that supports the continued growth of underserved businesses.

• The CMURC Minority Business Accelerator, powered by PNC, is designed to support underserved, low- to moderate-income, minority-owned and operated businesses throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region.

• Through a combination of business development services, personalized guidance, technical assistance, and access to capital opportunities, Lift ME helps established entrepreneurs strengthen their operations, overcome barriers, and build a foundation for sustainable growth.

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Eligibility

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• Business must be minority-owned and operated, with the applying business owner holding at least 51% ownership.

• Business must be for-profit enterprise that is currently operating.

• Business must be founded or currently conducting business within the Great Lakes Bay Region, specifically Bay, Midland, Isabella, or Saginaw County.

• Business must not be a franchise or affiliated with a national chain.

• Business must have annual gross revenue of less then $1 million. Businesses generating exactly $1 million or more are not eligible.

• Program prioritizes underserved, low-to moderate-income entrepreneurs seeking to strengthen and scale their businesses.