Macomb County Women Entrepreneurs Thrive with Small Business ‘Bootcamp’ – Macomb Daily

Women entrepreneurs in Macomb County recently completed a Women Business Builder Boot Camp at the Velocity Center in Sterling Heights, with the aim of kickstarting their small businesses. Adrienne Lakes, one of the participants, shared her success story after struggling with a business plan earlier this year. With the guidance of Dusty Welsh, a small business entrepreneurship coach, Lakes was able to complete her plan and gain valuable insights into starting a business.

The program, funded by a $1.8 million Small Business Support Hub Grant, provided coaching in finance, marketing, and other areas essential for business growth. The focus was on completing a business plan, which Welsh emphasized as crucial for setting objectives and measuring progress. The grant specifically targeted entrepreneurs affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as women, minorities, veterans, and those in financial need.

Participants paid a fee to join the boot camp but were expected to receive a $1,000 business-plan completion grant upon graduation. They also had the opportunity to pitch their business concepts for follow-up funding. Lakes, who is starting a holistic wellness and mindfulness business called Balance & Vibe, praised the camaraderie among the participants and the valuable training she received.

The Velocity Center, a business incubator and accelerator, plans to hold another boot camp in the fall for a new group of aspiring entrepreneurs. With the support of programs like these, women in Macomb County are empowered to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and contribute to economic growth in their communities.