Great Lakes Bay Business Hub Awards Grants and Opens Next Round Applications

Great Lakes Bay Business Hub Awards Grants and Opens Next Round Applications 

Regional Collaboration Fuels Entrepreneurial + Economic Growth 

The Great Lakes Bay Business Hub (GLBBH) is honored to announce the recipients of the Direct Grants to Small Business. After receiving over 29 competitive applications, ten small businesses have been awarded a total of $194,688.03 in funding.  This collaborative initiative, involving the Small Business Development Center, regional chambers of commerce, community and economic development organizations, and entrepreneurial service providers, are now accepting applications for the next round of grants, with a deadline of May 13. 

“These grants are more than financial awards - they’re investments in entrepreneurs that drive positive social change, empower communities, and shape a stronger, more resilient future for generations to come,” said Erin Strang, CMURC President + CEO. “By championing small business growth, we’re building the foundation for lasting regional impact.” 

The Direct Grants will make significant impacts, with recipients using the funds to purchase equipment, expand operations, and create new jobs, fueling economic development across the region. Recipients representing Bay, Clare, Midland, Isabella and Saginaw Counties include Allegiance Home Healthcare Agency; Barney’s Bakehouse Bakery LLC; BreAna Allen Consulting LLC ; Clare Family Fitness, Inc; My Angel Adult Foster Care LLC; New Beginnings Learning Center LLC (Sweet Angels Childcare); Nor’East Outdoors LLC; Solutions Behavioral Health, LLC; Tarsha Works Consulting; and Unplugged Outfitters, LLC.  

"I am honored to have been selected as a recipient of the Direct to Business Grant opportunity and am grateful for the experience of working with Great Lakes Bay Business Hub, which has provided me with valuable knowledge and resources," said Iesha Johnson, owner of Allegiance Home Healthcare Agency. "In response to this award, our plan is to create a positive impact in our community by promoting economic growth, creating jobs, providing training, and expanding care services to those in need. I sincerely thank GLBBH for this incredible opportunity." 

The Great Lakes Bay Business Hub aims to strengthen existing resources and deliver impactful programs and services through partnerships with key regional entities. These include the Central Michigan University Research Corporation (CMURC), Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and the Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance. At the county level, Bay County includes the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce and Bay Future; Midland County is represented by the Midland Business Alliance; Isabella County encompasses the Middle Michigan Development Corporation (MMDC) and Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce; Saginaw County includes the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce and Saginaw Future; and Gratiot, Clare, Gladwin and surrounding counties have the ability to participate as well.  

"At the SBDC, we are focused on helping businesses succeed and we are excited to see how the grant recipients will these proceeds to advance their respective businesses,” said Tony Fox, Regional Director with the Mid Michigan Small Business Development Center.  

Beyond the grant program, the Great Lakes Bay Business Hub offers a range of support for businesses and entrepreneurs, including coworking opportunities, tailored programs, and resources to foster growth and success throughout the region. 

Businesses and entrepreneurs across the region are encouraged to apply for the next round of grant funding by May 13. For more information about the grant program and to submit an application, visit workgreatlakesbay.com. 

About Great Lakes Bay Business Hub 

The Great Lakes Bay Business Hub (GLBBH) is a resource for business support and workspace solutions across the Great Lakes Bay Region, with a mission to strengthen the region’s economic landscape by empowering local businesses. Offering flexible conference and office spaces in Bay City, Midland, Saginaw, and Mt. Pleasant, GLBBH caters to the needs of entrepreneurs and small business owners. In collaboration with regional Chambers of Commerce and Economic Development Corporations, GLBBH provides a comprehensive network of support and resources to fuel growth and innovation. Apply today to unlock new opportunities and propel your business forward. This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP0127, awarded to the State of Michigan by the U.S. Department of Treasury.