Don’t miss out on the opportunity to share your valuable feedback by completing MEDC’s Small Business Survey. We are committed to providing you with high quality business support that meets your needs. With this in mind, we are asking business owners to complete a brief survey. The MEDC has partnered with Start Up Space, a third-party technology platform and data analytics firm, to conduct this survey across the state of Michigan. Your responses will help us adapt our programming to best support you and the small business community in Michigan. The deadline to complete the survey is December 20.

Supporting locally-owned businesses is important in all seasons, but choosing a small business while shopping, dining and traveling during the holiday season can have a big impact on local economies. From stocking stuffers to family vacations, Pure Michigan is again encouraging shoppers to consider giving Michigan-made products, supporting local retailers and restaurants, or presenting the perfect Michigan getaway as a special holiday gift this year.

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2022 National Small Business Week (NSBW) Awards. The NSBW Awards recognize the achievements of U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)-assisted small businesses and the contributions they have made to their communities and our nation’s economy. All nominations should be submitted electronically by 3 p.m. on January 11, 2022. The awards will be presented during the NSBW Awards ceremony in the first week of May 2022.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer, in preparation for the billions in federal funds Michigan is expected to receive over the next five years specifically for high-speed internet from the newly-enacted Bipartisan Infrastructure Plan, issued an executive directive this week for state departments and agencies to collaborate with the legislature and ready the state to continue expanding high-speed internet access. The state is working to lower the cost of internet service and help families, communities, and small businesses get and stay connected to affordable, reliable high-speed service.

The newest episode of The Michigan Opportunity podcast features Sue Tellier, owner and president of JetCo Federal. Join Tellier and host Ed Clemente for a lively discussion on small business, defense suppliers and what is WIPP? Jetco Federal, located in Grand Rapids, Mich., is a prime contractor in supply chain management and logistics serving in the defense industrial base. You can also read the transcript from the conversation.

Michigan Economic Development Corporation helps to connect businesses to new resources, meet new partners and access the additional capital they need from the start. If your business needs support to reach its new potential, the MEDC is available to help. Visit michiganbusiness.org/pure-partnership to find customized business assistance.

Access COVID-19 resources for businesses and communities by visiting michiganbusiness.org/covid19. Read more about programs supporting economic recovery for Michigan businesses by visiting michiganbusiness.org/covid19response.