Huron County is taking another step toward building a stronger, more connected support system for local entrepreneurs and small businesses. The Huron County Economic Development Corporation (EDC), in partnership with the Community and Worker Economic Transition Office, has been awarded $100,000 through the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s Economic Transition Fund.
As one of 10 Michigan communities participating in the Community Growth Academy, Huron County will use the funding to launch its first coordinated entrepreneurial ecosystem and small business support hub.
Building a Connected Support System for Entrepreneurs
Starting and growing a business requires navigating a wide range of resources, programs, funding opportunities, technical assistance, and professional services. The ecosystem is designed to make those connections easier for Huron County entrepreneurs.
The goal is to create a long-term support network that connects entrepreneurs with the people, resources, capital, and technical assistance they need at every stage of their business journey. The EDC will serve as a "front door" to this ecosystem, making it easier for business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs to find available resources and connect with organizations that can help.
Opportunities will include:
Educational workshops, entrepreneur roundtables, mentorship opportunities
Cohort-based programming
Technical assistance
Connections to capital and other business support services
"The strongest economies don't happen by chance. They're built by investing in people, businesses, and the systems that support them," said Samantha Schnettler, Executive Director of the Huron County EDC. "Through the Community Growth Academy Transition Fund, Huron County will strengthen its entrepreneurial ecosystem by connecting small businesses with technical assistance, mentorship, business cohorts, and practical resources that help them start, grow, and succeed."
What This Means for Huron County Businesses
This initiative is about creating a more coordinated approach to supporting entrepreneurship throughout the county. Rather than business owners having to navigate resources on their own, the EDC will work with local, regional, and statewide partners to help connect businesses with the support that fits their needs. The program will also create opportunities for entrepreneurs to learn from one another, build relationships, and access programming designed around the challenges and opportunities of running a business in a rural community.
The first business cohorts are expected to launch in early 2027. Business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs interested in participating are encouraged to follow the Huron County EDC's social media channels and website for upcoming announcements, program details, and information about how to get involved. More information about the new entrepreneurial support opportunities will be shared as programming develops.