Success Stories

Creating prosperous communities and thriving businesses

Featured Success Stories

Bake Superior Bread

Ironwood, Michigan
“The help we’ve received from Northern Initiatives has been extremely beneficial.” – Andrew Brand, Bake Superior Bread Andrew Brand isn’t sure where his business would…
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Systems Control

Iron Mountain, Michigan
"We needed customized training to suit our business, and we were able to work with The Center – Northern Initiatives to create the appropriate content."…
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Beechwood Café

Roscommon, Michigan
“I’m so happy to be working with Northern Initiatives as opposed to a big bank. There is such personal service. The relationship is so nice.”…
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Little Black Rake

Gladwin, Michigan
“(Northern Initiatives) has been so much better than any other lending institution.” - Dave Moore, Little Black Rake Mary Moore just wanted to continue selling…
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Mosley School of Cosmetology

Grand Rapids, Michigan
“I want to make sure I’m dealing with people the right way. I want everyone to be successful and yet feel loved and wanted.” –…
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All Success Stories

South Arm Retreats (former known as East Jordan Motel)
East Jordan, Michigan
Although the vibe is more casual than the Ritz-Carleton, the note on the door with a phone number to “call when you arrive or if…
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Marquette Food Co-op
Marquette, Michigan
As a result of careful planning, industry experience, exceptional staff, an investment in state-of-the-art technology, and financial partnerships, the Marquette Food Cooperative is poised for…
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DerMiner’s Parkside Market
Gaylord, Michigan
“We are very thankful for the financial and educational support provided to us by Northern Initiatives. Without their financial assistance, we may not have been…
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WaterFire Vineyards
Kewadin, Michigan
"Growing grapes and making wine is in our nature," explains Chantal, owner of WaterFire Vineyards. "We invest everything we have to make each bottle a…
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Michigan Pure Ice
Indian River, Michigan
Crystal Schley learned that the need for ice was unmet during the hot summer and high tourist seasons in her community. By launching her business,…
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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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