Business Owners Gained Practical Guidance on Financing and Growth at Regional Workshop
Cheboygan, MI – January 28, 2026 — Local entrepreneurs and business leaders gathered in Cheboygan for a small business training and networking workshop designed to help owners access financing opportunities to support growth, expansion, and long-term sustainability.
Hosted by the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (NLEA) with guest, Venture North, the event addressed the challenges business owners face when navigating funding options beyond earned revenue—particularly during periods of expansion or seasonal fluctuations.
The workshop provided attendees with an overview of available financing tools and regional support resources, including alternative low-interest loan programs and business grant opportunities. Participants also learned how to identify and locate property for business ventures, explored tax abatement opportunities for commercial and industrial development, and were introduced to additional partner organizations that can support entrepreneurs at various stages of business growth.
The session combined educational presentations with networking opportunities, allowing business owners to connect directly with resource providers and fellow entrepreneurs while gaining practical insights tailored to real-world business needs.
“By bringing together trusted regional partners and financial experts, this event reinforced that business owners don’t have to navigate funding challenges alone. Access to capital, technical assistance, and community support is essential to building strong local businesses and a resilient regional economy,” said Dave Kronberg, Director of Business Growth for the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance.
By bringing together regional expertise and financing resources in one setting, the workshop aimed to reduce barriers to funding access and empower business owners with the knowledge needed to make informed financial decisions.
