Whitmer proclaims this week as Small Business Week in Michigan

On Tuesday, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer proclaimed September 20 – September 26 as Michigan Small Business Week to recognize the thousands of small business across the state that keep Michigan’s economy strong and our communities united. 

“The COVID-19 pandemic has hurt small business owners everywhere who have spent their lives building their businesses. While we have been able to secure small business loans for people across Michigan, there is still more work to do to ensure they have the support they need to get through this pandemic,” said Whitmer. “When our local businesses thrive so do our communities, families, schools, and economy. I hope this week will serve as a reminder of the positive impact small businesses have on our state. I encourage us all to do our part by shopping local now and throughout the year.” 

In Michigan, small businesses comprise over 98% of Michigan businesses and employ half of Michigan workers. Additionally, for every $100 spent at a local business, roughly $68 stays in the local economy, allowing both business and job growth. 

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Whitmer and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) have worked together to leverage federal  CARES Act funding to provide economic support to entrepreneurs, workers and communities in all 83 counties through the Michigan Small Business Restart Grant program ($100 million) and Michigan Agricultural Safety Grant program ($15 million). As part of the Michigan Small Business Restart Grant we have ensured that at least 30% of these funds will support women-, minority- or veteran-owned businesses around the state.

“By collaborating with local partners and our partner agencies across state government, we have been able to deliver vital financial resources to small businesses across Michigan to create a path for economic recovery here in our state,” said Mark A. Burton, CEO of the MEDC. “We will continue to work closely with our small business community to ensure they have the opportunity to not only survive, but thrive, in Michigan long term.” 

Since March, MEDC launched 19 COVID-19 response programs, that are anticipated to support more than 10,000 businesses throughout the state by the end of the year, while retaining 21,000 jobs. Additionally, 42% of support has gone to businesses in historically disadvantaged communities. Additional information is available at michiganbusiness.org/covid19response.