Michigan Doubles Down on Small Business Success: Expanded Funding for Support Hubs

Small businesses are the backbone of local economies, yet many struggle to find the resources, guidance, and support they need to grow. That’s why Michigan’s latest investment in Small Business Support Hubs is big news for entrepreneurs across the state.

On February 24, 2026, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that the Michigan Strategic Fund Board has approved nearly $11.3 million in state funding to continue and expand the Small Business Support Hubs initiative led by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). (MEDC)

🔗 Read the full announcement:https://www.michiganbusiness.org/press-releases/2026/02/whitmer-announces-funding-for-small-business-support-hubs/ (MEDC)

What Are Small Business Support Hubs?

The Small Business Support Hubs are regional resource centers that help Michigan entrepreneurs and small business owners access the tools, training, funding connections, and coaching they need to thrive. Since the initiative began in 2023, it has delivered impressive results, serving thousands of businesses and helping create or retain jobs across the state. (MEDC)

Here’s a snapshot of what the initiative has already accomplished:

• 8,800+ businesses served

• More than 5,000 jobs created or retained

• 2,000+ new business starts

• 750+ direct grants awarded

• More than $158 million in follow-on funding

• Over $3.8 million invested directly into small businesses (MEDC)

These numbers show that small business owners — given the right support — can not only survive but grow and drive economic opportunity in their communities.

Where the New Funding Will Go

Of the $11.3 million approved, approximately $8 million will be used to support ongoing hub operations, workshops, programming, and regional coordination. Another $3.3 million is allocated for direct business assistance awards — meaning funds that go straight to entrepreneurs and small businesses that qualify for support. (Expansion Solutions)

This funding is drawn from state appropriations in Michigan’s fiscal 2026 budget, not from federal sources, demonstrating a long-term commitment by the state legislature and administration to strengthen small business support. (MEDC)

Here’s why Michigan’s investment should matter to you:

📍 More Local Support

Hubs are regionally coordinated centers that understand the specific needs of businesses in your area, from Ann Arbor to Flint to Grand Rapids and beyond. (MEDC)

📍 Access to Funding and Expertise

Beyond coaching and counseling, small businesses may qualify for direct assistance through grants — a rare and valuable resource for startups and growing companies. (MEDC)

📍 Stronger Community Networks

By connecting small businesses with local partners, nonprofits, and economic development organizations, the hubs help build business ecosystems where entrepreneurs can learn from each other. (Expansion Solutions)

📍 More Jobs and Economic Growth

Investments like this don’t just help businesses — they help entire communities thrive by creating good-paying jobs and attracting future investment. (MEDC)

As Jay Williams, director of Small Business Services at the MEDC, put it, the Small Business Support Hubs serve as “a significant catalyst for increasing local, community-driven economic development and regional coordination.” (MEDC)

Looking Ahead

The new funding ensures that the Small Business Support Hubs will continue operations and expand services in the coming year. The initiative has proven that with targeted support and state resources, local entrepreneurs can create meaningful economic impact — from creating jobs to launching new ventures across Michigan. (MEDC)

Small business owners interested in tapping into these resources should monitor updates from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and prepare to connect with support hubs in their region.

This investment shows that when state leadership prioritizes small business success, the benefits ripple outward — strengthening economies, communities, and the people behind America’s most resilient companies.