Success Stories

Creating prosperous communities and thriving businesses

Featured Success Stories

The Only Cannoli

Muskegon, Michigan
“You have a dream and you think you know how to make that dream come true, but it’s so wonderful to have the resources available.…
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Five Pillars Farm

Eau Claire, Michigan
  Sherman Reed has always been a thorough researcher, so when his research pointed him to Northern Initiatives, he researched some more and surprised even…
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Tip’N The Mitten

Grayling, Michigan
A chance to give back to the community popped up during the summer of 2020 when another downtown business owner announced he was ready to…
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PM Power Group

White Pine, Michigan
“Northern Initiatives told us, 'It's an honor. We've got faith in you.' That means a lot.” Zach Halkola, COO, PM Power Group Zach Halkola remembers…
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Ragsdale Home Furnishings

Battle Creek, Michigan
"I started my business using credit cards to purchase inventory and equipment. At the time, I didn't know groups like Northern Initiatives were out there…
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All Success Stories

The Redheads
Lake Leelanau, Michigan
In 1997, sisters Sarah Landry Ryder and Christen Landry, created Kejara's Bridge, a community-centered coffee house/restaurant featuring vegan, vegetarian, and specialty foods. Although the Landry…
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AdvantEdge Sports Training
Marquette, Michigan
Dustin Brancheau, Director of AdvantEdge Sports Training, has independently grown the clientele in this 6,200 square-foot warehouse-style gym to 200+ members and two locations. Offering…
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Cherry Republic
Glen Arbor, Michigan
Bob Sutherland started this cherry-centric business in 1988 by selling t-shirts sporting a cherry design from the trunk of his cafe. The focus on cherries…
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Delta Wheel Truing Solutions (Formerly Delta Manufacturing)
Escanaba, Michigan
Jean Ross is using what she's learned through her work with Northern Initiatives to build a business and operating plan that includes a new product…
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Sunshine Motel and Cabins
Ontonagon, Michigan
Nestled on 60 acres of pristine forest land, with nearby access to spectacular Lake Superior and the beautiful Porcupine Mountains State Park, sits Sunshine Motel.…
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Sky Iris
Harbor Springs, Michigan
Inspired by motherhood and intent on owning her own small business and determined to do so in “her own way”, Leslie Burke found the perfect…
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Karl’s Cuisine
Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
“All Chefs want their own restaurant,” Karl Nelson states. “It’s the ultimate goal!” One that serves up fresh, local food made from scratch, paired with…
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Pictured Rocks Cruises
Munising, Michigan
Locally owned and operated Pictured Rocks Cruises has been offering a unique and stunning view of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore for over 50 years. New…
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Blackrocks Brewery
Marquette, Michigan
Blackrocks Brewery employs 12 enthusiastic and passionate locals in their expanded tap room and "pop shop" canning facility. The Vibe on 424 N. Third Street…
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