Voices
Voices
Dive into compelling stories from Michigan's 83 counties and hear from business owners, students, and community members as they describe their unique perspectives on living and working in Michigan.
Across Michigan, founders are building with a purpose. We’re not here to chase headlines – we’re here to solve real problems in AI and SaaS, life sciences, mobility, advanced manufacturing, clean tech and more.
Interactive Story Map
A unique voice from every county
Dive directly into Michigan’s counties to read stories told by business owners, community leaders and michiganders around the state. Select a county to begin exploring.
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All Stories
Cass
All Cass, No Brakes
Emilie LaGrow of Cassopolis
Through the adage “if we invest in ourselves, others will invest in us,” Emilie LaGrow is helping to revive the village of Cassopolis from slowing to growing.
Cheboygan
The Perfect Blend
The Cutter Family of Cheboygan Coffee Roasters
Jane, Jeff and Brody Cutter are brewing up something special in downtown Cheboygan with their family-owned-and-operated coffee roasting business
Macomb
Dynamic Defense
Cemone Moy of General Dynamics Land Systems
As a lifelong Metro Detroiter and manager of international sustainment programs for a military vehicle manufacturer, Cemone Moy is proud to be a part of Michigan’s Defense Corridor
Muskegon
Bowled Over
Corey Dykstra of Brunswick Bowling Products
As CEO for the largest supplier of high-performance bowling equipment and supplies in the world, contributing to Michigan’s manufacturing heritage is right up Corey Dykstra’s alley.
Iron
Home Court Advantage
Jason Gasperich of Connor Sports Flooring
As technical director for the supplier of some of the most famous basketball courts, Jason Gasperich is showing the world what Michigan is made of
Kalkaska
DNA of the DDA
Gayenell Gentelia of Kalkaska Downtown Development Authority
As DDA Associate Director, Gayenell Gentelia is committed to building a stronger Kalkaska community for its residents
Wexford
Staying Grounded
Aaron Fekete of Owl Eye Coffee Roasters
Aaron Fekete is bringing his coffee roasting expertise to caffeinate the Cadillac community and beyond
Oscoda
Bending the Future
Kyle Yoder of MetalFab Manufacturing
Kyle Yoder embraces his hometown and keeps his family’s business on the path to success in Oscoda County
Gratiot
All Aboard
Jane Unterbrink of North Pole Express
Working with the Steam Railroading Institute and Village of Ashley Country Christmas, Jane Unterbrink has helped Michigan families make holiday memories on the North Pole Express for two decades
Mason
Sticking to Success
Nick Tykoski of SafetyDecals
As the CEO of SafetyDecals in Ludington, Nick Tykoski is helping make safety stick
Kalamazoo
Homegrown Success
Rachel Plankenhorn of the Village Hide-A-Way
From Colorado to her hometown community, Rachel Plankenhorn is proud to be a part of Vicksburg’s oldest family business
Kent
Eyes on the Prize
Catlin Whitington of ArtPrize
Austin, Texas, transplant Catlin Whitington moved with his family to Grand Rapids to be at the helm of ArtPrize, the world’s most attended public art event
Luce
Pizza My Heart
Jo Tranchita of Seder's Pizza
As an Upper Peninsula transplant, Jo Tranchita has made herself an invaluable member of her community – from volunteering with local organizations to taking ownership of a favorite pizza place
Dickinson
What's Mine is Yours
Karen Secinaro of Iron Mountain Iron Mine
As general manager of the Iron Mountain Iron Mine, Karen Secinaro is carrying on the legacy of the family business and honoring the Upper Peninsula’s mining history
Montcalm
Keep Montcalm and Carry On
Duane Weed of Discover Montcalm Podcast
As host of the Discover Montcalm podcast and owner of DW Video & Multimedia, Duane Weed captures the sights and sounds of the Montcalm community
Otsego
Sand and Snow
Barry Owens of Treetops Resort
As general manager of Treetops Resort in Gaylord, Barry Owens celebrates the variety and gift of Michigan’s four seasons
Antrim
Down on the Farm
Caitlin McSweeney-Steffes of Danu Hof Farm and Market
Born and raised in Michigan, Caitlin McSweeney-Steffes always dreamt of owning a family farm in her home state.
Leelanau
Bubbles Up
Larry Mawby of MAWBY Vineyards and Winery
As the Mawby of MAWBY Vineyards and Winery, Larry Mawby is enjoying the fruits of his labor as a wine pioneer in the Leelanau region and embracing the retired life in Northern Michigan
Barry
Skills of the Trade
Jillian Cowley of Bradford White Water Heaters
As a welder for Bradford White Water Heaters, Jillian Cowley is forging her own path in a male-dominated field
Lake
Recipe for Success
Dina Velocci of 876 Baldwin
Dina Velocci and her husband created a dining destination and inspired community revitalization in the small West Michigan village of Baldwin.
Michigan does an excellent job of fostering a supportive environment for small businesses, especially through organizations like the SBDC. There is a strong sense of community among entrepreneurs, and many valuable resources available for people starting and growing a business.