Governor Whitmer Allocates $8.8 Million to Aid Diverse Small Businesses

In a recent announcement, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) revealed the recipients of the Inclusive Entrepreneurship Support Grants (IESG). This program aims to break down barriers for disadvantaged small businesses, entrepreneurs, and innovators in communities of color, helping them create jobs, grow Michigan’s economy, and achieve their dreams.

Governor Whitmer expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating, “The Inclusive Entrepreneurship Support Grant program is part of our work to support every Michigan entrepreneur and innovator as they chase their next big idea in Michigan. Together, these grants will help us unleash Michigan ingenuity, grow our economy, and build the future of sustainability, affordable housing, health sciences, and clean energy.”

Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II also emphasized the importance of inclusivity in entrepreneurship, stating, “Our Inclusive Entrepreneurship Support Grant program will support diverse entrepreneurs and innovators as they solve problems and make a difference for Michigan communities. Team Michigan is making it clear that here in Michigan, we welcome people of all backgrounds to launch their ideas and build their futures in our great state.”

The IESG program is a $10 million initiative to support small business development initiatives across the state. With over 620 applications received, totaling $580 million in funding requests, the program aims to address key economic development issues facing Michigan, including clean energy, infrastructure, talent attraction, healthcare innovation, and more. Out of the $10 million allocated, $8.8 million will be deployed to the eight awardees, with $500,000 going to both the Lansing Economic Area Partnership and the Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance.

MEDC CEO Quentin L. Messer, Jr. highlighted the impact that the grant recipients will have on Michigan’s strategic priorities, stating, “The Inclusive Entrepreneurship Support Grant recipients will drive impact in some of the state’s key strategic priorities, from clean energy to affordable housing. This was a very highly competitive application process, and we are proud to support the growth of these eight grantees.”

One of the grant recipients, Dunamis Charge, based in Detroit, is a leading developer of EV charging solutions. The company aims to make EV charging accessible, reliable, and efficient for all communities. With the support of the IESG program, Dunamis Charge plans to expand its operations and enhance its product offerings in various key areas, including EV infrastructure development, technological innovation, community outreach, and workforce development.

Another recipient, CircNova, a biotech startup in Detroit, is leveraging AI-driven drug discovery to advance RNA therapeutic development. The company plans to use the grant funds to launch its laboratory and hire key staff to support its innovative research and development efforts.

The Mackinac Technology Company, based in Kentwood, is focused on developing technologies for residential, commercial, and government buildings to improve health, comfort, and safety. With the IESG funds, the company aims to transition its research into manufacturing and selling products that promote energy efficiency.

NX Fuels Inc, a climate tech startup in Ann Arbor, is working on producing green hydrogen using renewable solar energy. The company plans to use the grant to hire additional staff and develop a H2 separation subsystem for its solar fuel system.

Ginosko Modular, based in Romulus, produces modular housing units for low- to moderate-income families. The company plans to use the grant to complete the build-out of its factory and enhance its operational efficiencies.

Unified Business Technologies (UBT), located in Troy, is a woman- and minority-owned enterprise focused on sustainable technology and advanced manufacturing. With the IESG funds, UBT aims to expand its operations and provide training and mentoring opportunities for underserved minorities.

SBE Medical, Inc., a Veteran-owned medical device company in Grand Rapids, plans to use the grant to enhance its production capabilities and support key functions such as engineering and marketing.

Union Heritage, a majority African American- and woman-owned firm in Detroit, is an early-stage investor focused on building an inclusive entrepreneurial environment in Michigan. The company plans to use the grant to hire additional investment professionals and expand its entrepreneur support services.

Overall, the Inclusive Entrepreneurship Support Grants are set to make a significant impact on Michigan’s economy by supporting a diverse range of small businesses and entrepreneurs. By breaking down barriers and providing financial assistance, these grants will help drive innovation, create jobs, and foster economic growth across the state. Michigan continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and fostering a thriving business ecosystem for all.