Dear Friends and Partners,

As we reflect on the past year, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible journey Northern Initiatives has taken over the last three decades. In 2024, we celebrated 30 years of service to our communities—years marked by dedication to supporting small businesses and the fostering of economic growth in regions that need it the most. This milestone is not just a reflection of our longevity, but of the transformative impact we have had in the lives of countless entrepreneurs and families.

Throughout our history, we have remained committed to a simple but powerful mission: to build stronger, more resilient communities through access to capital and resources. Our work has always centered on empowering local businesses, supporting job creation, and revitalizing neighborhoods that were often left behind by traditional financial institutions. From rural Michigan to urban areas, Northern Initiatives has been a beacon of opportunity, connecting entrepreneurs with the support they need to thrive.

However, as we look toward the future, we are reminded that we are navigating a time of uncertainty. The economic landscape has shifted, and with that, the resources available to organizations like ours have been strained. In particular, federal funding cuts have presented new challenges that we are working tirelessly to address. These cuts, which affect vital programs that support community development, have made our work more difficult, but also more urgent. At Northern Initiatives, we remain resilient in the face of these changes, continuing to advocate for the people and places we serve.

Thank you for your continued belief in Northern Initiatives. Together, we will build a brighter future for the communities we serve.

Sincerely,
ELISSA SANGALLI
PRESIDENT & CEO, NORTHERN INITIATIVES