Venture North Funding & Development

05/28/2026

Growing businesses = stronger, safer, healthier communities.

Our newest Northern Lights story highlights two incredible Venture North clients making an impact in northern Michigan:
WarBird Protection Group is expanding manufacturing operations in Kalkaska — with plans to create more than 100 jobs.�
Jessica Horness and Traverse Well Being is building a community-centered space for mental health and healing in Traverse City.

We’re proud to support entrepreneurs who are investing in both their businesses and their communities.

Read the full story on our website today: https://www.venturenorthfunding.org/northern-lights-may-2026

05/27/2026

At Venture North, we love celebrating businesses that are building more than strong customer bases...they’re building strong teams, healthy workplaces, and thoughtful plans for long-term sustainability, too.

Golden Swan Management, a growing Northwest Michigan vacation rental company, recently expanded into a new headquarters and in-house laundry facility. The move helps streamline operations and reduce costs while positioning the company for continued growth.

Just as important? Owner Katy Bertodatto remains deeply committed to fostering a people-first culture that benefits employees, guests, and the broader Northwest Michigan community alike.

We’re proud to share more about Golden Swan’s story, expansion, and continued impact in the Client News section of our website. Read more at the link below!

Northern Michigan Property Management Team Supports Team, Clients, Communities with Venture North Funding

05/06/2026

Northern Michigan Flood Relief Fund

The Paul Bunyan Chapter of the Michigan Credit Union League credit unions joined together to create the Northern Michigan Flood Relief Fund: a coalition-backed micro-grant program designed to provide direct financial relief ($500 grants) to CU members in need. Applications due by 5:00 p.m. this Friday, May 8th.

bank, banking, credit union, members, membership, traverse city, mobile banking, online banking, online bill pay, loans, lending, student accounts, savings, checking, debit card, credit card, mortgages, home equity, auto loans, boat loans, line of credit, newsletter

04/30/2026

Local businesses don’t just grow — they bolster industries and strengthen entire communities.

Our latest client story highlights beloved Benjamin Twiggs - The Original Cherry Store’s relocation/expansion in downtown Traverse City and their continued family-driven commitment to supporting Michigan cherry growers.

This is what investing in small business looks like.

Read more (and see how you can support these investments): https://www.venturenorthfunding.org/customer-stories-news/customer-stories-testimonials/benjamin-twiggs

04/21/2026

Happening THIS Wednesday!

If you’re starting a business — or thinking about it — this free workshop is for you:
Bootstrapped to Bankable�
April 22, 4–7 PM�
Traverse City

Join Venture North, Huntington Bank, and partners during Northern Michigan Startup Week for a hands-on session all about building strong banking relationships and finding the right funding for your business.

* Learn what lenders look for
* Explore financing options (including CDFIs!)
* Walk away with practical next steps
* Plus—light food & great conversation.

Spots are still open, but not for long! Save your spot today:
https://www.venturenorthfunding.org/events/bootstrapped

04/13/2026

An exciting in-person event designed to explore opportunities and resources tailored for rural entrepreneurs! This Friday - FREE!

Are you an entrepreneur seeking capital for your small business? Then don't miss this event on April 17! Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sba-northern-lower-peninsula-rural-capital-quest-tickets-1985374187640

04/13/2026

Behind every small business in Northern Michigan, there’s a story.

That’s why we’re always inspired by Northern Michigan Startup Week (April 20–24). It’s not just a week of events, it’s a gathering of the people behind those stories.

At Venture North, supporting those small businesses is at the heart of what we do and so we're not just attending but also co-hosting an event with Huntington Bank: Bootstrapped but Bankable: How Banking Relationships and CDFI Partnerships Fuel Growth.

This week is a chance to learn something new, meet someone who gets it, and take your next step: we hope you’ll join us!

Tickets/full lineup here: https://nmsw.co/?page_id=13522

03/31/2026

As Women's History Month draws to a close, we want to share a recent article highlighting some wisdom from just some of the amazing women entrepreneurs we are so fortunate to work with here in Northern Michigan.

They comprise nearly 70% of Venture North-supported businesses and - all of the months of the year - are essential to the small business communities and economic well-being of northwest Michigan communities.

Click the link below for real-world insights, inspiration, and links to each of these amazing entrepreneurs: https://www.venturenorthfunding.org/customer-stories-news/customer-stories-testimonials/womens-history-month-2026

03/19/2026

Our partners and friends at Northern Lakes Economic Alliance are looking for someone special to join their team and further their mission!

We’re hiring a Business Growth Specialist!

This role is all about supporting Northern Michigan businesses—helping them grow, invest in new equipment and automation, and tackle workforce challenges with creative, regionally tailored solutions. You’ll work closely with our team to guide businesses through financial incentive programs and be part of the behind-the-scenes work that keeps our local economy moving forward.

We’re looking for someone who’s passionate about helping businesses succeed, thrives in a team environment, and takes pride in doing high-quality work.

To learn more and apply, visit https://thenlea.com/careers/