Genesee County’s small businesses are vital to the success of our local economy, which is why the work of the Flint & Genesee Small Business Support Hub is so important.
A program of the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance, the Small Business Support Hub is one of 27 hubs established by the State of Michigan. Since the program’s launch in 2023, the team has met with over 400 local small businesses and entrepreneurs, offering comprehensive support and connections to help them succeed.
That work continues every day through technical assistance, coaching, training, and events at no cost to clients. And a great opportunity to tap into this resource is coming up for established or new small businesses and entrepreneurs.
On Sept. 25, the Immerse Entrepreneurial & Small Business Summit – a day-long event hosted by the Small Business Support Hub and sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation – will offer breakout sessions, networking, and the second annual Immerse Awards. The program will aim to uplift small business owners.
Breakout sessions during the event will include Second Act, First Business: Becoming Your Own Boss; Opening Doors: Your Path to Brick and Mortar; Accessing Capital; Retail Business E-Commerce Essentials; Business Structures & Legal Compliance; Mastering Elevator Pitches; Profit & Loss Code for Food Businesses; Digital Marketing for Small Businesses; Understanding the Foundation of Business Insurance; and more.
In addition, the Immerse Awards will recognize four local businesses that have worked with the Genesee Entrepreneurial Network (GEN) and have exhibited excellence in customer service and demonstrated remarkable growth.
Participants will also have time for networking and interacting with exhibitors, including members of GEN, a group of service providers that support small businesses, and other resources. And there will be special announcements about upcoming programs for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
The Immerse Entrepreneurial & Small Business Summit will be held on Thursday, Sept. 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Gateway Center Wyndham Hotel in Flint. Registration is free, and both breakfast and lunch are included. To register, visit DevelopFlintandGenesee.org/Immerse. You can also learn more about the Flint & Genesee Small Business Support Hub at DevelopFlintandGenesee.org.