Business Resources

GENERAL

MichBusiness (formerly Michigan Business & Professionals Association)
In this community, businesses can interact and engage in any number of ways: online networking, digitally through the website, or in person at the MichBusiness Milestone Series events.

Michigan Small Business Development Center
With 11 regional centers and a state headquarters, this group offers expert assistance at no cost to entrepreneurs looking to start or grow a business. They can be particularly useful with regard to business plans, market research, raising capital, technology, financial management, strategic planning, financial management, exporting, and human resources.

SCORE
This is the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors. It is a nonprofit and is able to provide most of its assistance at no cost. There is a library of online resources as well as webinars and on-demand courses available through the website. The primary claim to fame is mentoring from seasoned professionals. Visit the website and enter your zip code to find mentoring options near you.

Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM)
Based in Lansing, SBAM is a watchdog, lobbying on behalf of the state’s small businesses. In addition to advocating on their behalf, the organization brings business owners together to share knowledge, creates collaborative partnerships, and helps reduce business expenses through group buying power.

United States Small Business Administration (SBA)
The SBA is the only cabinet-level federal agency fully dedicated to small business. It provides counseling, capital, and contracting expertise. It is also an excellent resource for information on landing government contracts.

WOMEN

Inforum
Founded as the Women’s Economic Club, at a time when women were not allowed to join business organizations, Inforum has a long tradition of providing professional development opportunities for women, including a strong leadership development program. This organization excels at networking with 25 Affinity Groups in Southeast and West Michigan. Some revolve around industries, others culture or activities, and even some around craft beer.

Michigan Association for Female Entrepreneurs (MAFE)
This statewide entity is designed to provide women entrepreneurs in Michigan with the tools, resources and support needed to start, grow and sustain viable businesses that contribute to economic growth and job creation.

National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)
NAWBO represents over 10 million women-owned businesses across the United States. It is a dues-based organization that represents the interests of all women entrepreneurs across all industries, particularly in Washington D.C. and with chapters across the country. In addition to advocacy, it provides educational opportunities and honors achievement. Michigan’s branch of this national organization is the Greater Detroit Chapter.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Michigan Brewers Guild
Michigan Craft Beverage Council
Michigan Craft Spirits Association
Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDARD)
Michigan Food & Beverage Association
Michigan Spirits Association
Michigan Wine Collaborative
Michigan State University Product Center
Taste the Local Difference

ARTS & STYLE

ArtServe Michigan
Art League of Michigan
Artworks Gallery
Brighton Art Guild
Dearborn Community Arts Council
Detroit Artists Market
Detroit Focus
Downriver Council for the Arts
Greater Flint Arts Council
The Guild of Artists & Artisans
Michigan Art Education Association
Michigan Humanities Council
Plymouth Community Arts Council
Shiawassee Arts Council
St. Clair Art Association
VSA Arts of Michigan