New Washtenaw County program offers support for business owners recovering from COVID

The Washtenaw County Office of Community and Economic Development (OCED) is now accepting applications for its new Small Business Growth Activator Program, which aims to support entrepreneurs seeking to recover from the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cheranissa Williams, OCED’s economic opportunity division administrator, is leading the program. She says participating businesses must have launched prior to March 2020, even if they slowed down or temporarily closed during the pandemic.

“The whole point was to support businesses that were adversely affected by COVID and help them stabilize and grow,” she says.

The program offers two focused tracks: one designed to strengthen sales strategies, pitching, and revenue generation, and another centered on branding and marketing for businesses needing greater visibility and customer engagement. Ten businesses will be accepted into each track.

Those accepted into the program will receive a $2,500 grant along with free coaching and mentorship through two locally led programs: a 10-week “Rebuild & Rise” program hosted by Resourceful Reese and a 6-week “Rebuild & Rise” program hosted by Community Compliance Consultants. 

Support for businesses affected by COVID-19 doesn’t stop there, even if they’re not accepted into the program. Williams also highlights the newly rebranded Entrepreneurship Summit, formerly the Small Business Expo, happening March 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Washtenaw County Community College. The free event will feature growth labs, multiple business sessions, a panel discussion, and help developing a 90-day revenue plan.

“This is about community,” Williams emphasizes. “Whether you’re selected or not, we still want to be a resource.”

To learn more or apply to the Small Business Growth Activator program, click here.