GROW (Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women) has been working with thousands of entrepreneurs since in 1989; all with dreams of becoming economically independent. GROW's entrepreneurial training, business counseling, networking opportunities, and financial resources provide the tools needed to start, run, sustain, and expand the businesses in our community. Whether the topic is finance, management, marketing, or strategic planning, GROW offers professional, high quality training and business counseling. GROW is an SBA certified Women's Business Center and receives a portion of their funding from the Small Business Administration (SMA). The remainder of their funding comes from local foundations, corporation, and individuals. The funds provided are to support our local organization's operational costs as well as helping to underwrite our trainings to further serve our economic disadvantaged markets.
Since 2010, GROW has served 3,068 clients with a result of 167 new businesses opening their doors and an addition of 324 jobs to our community. In 2012, GROW served 93% women, 32% minorities, 47% extremely low to moderate households and 11% single mother households. In addition, GROW provided the following: 983 attendees took advantage of 208 hours of entrepreneurial training and 546 sessions of free business counseling were conducted in 630 total hours. All of that adds up to huge local impact for Grand Rapids!
GROW
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GROW
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From this issue
As Michiganders, we know well that our state can be counted amongst the most beautiful and exciting. That's all thanks to a bevy of natural wonders, a full four seasons, unmatched attractions and the people who make it all happen. Come along as we set off on a Michigan must-see journey, where we encourage you to be a tourist in your own state.
Many small business owners will tell you the road to successful entrepreneurship is hardly smooth.
In addition to a solid business plan, it takes plenty of grit, strong self-belief, good mentors, resilience and an unwavering willingness to get back up when you've been knocked down.
Farah Merhi deeply understands the power of a warm, welcoming and comfortable home.
Having been born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in Africa to Lebanese parents who previously fled war-torn Lebanon in search of a better life, she knows what it's like to be forced to leave everything you know.
Spring is officially here, meaning that many of us are getting outside more and soaking up some much needed fresh air. We're also getting to work on some spring cleaning in our homes.