business news

Gov. Whitmer Announces Business Expansions That Will Provide 140 Good-Paying Jobs

Yesterday Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joined the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to announce two new business expansion projects that will create 140 new jobs between the two cities of Warren and Jackson.

The two businesses involved are Commonwealth Associates, Inc. and The Home Depot. Commonwealth Associates is an electrical engineering consulting firm located in Jackson and is seeking to expand, which would bring 60 well-paying professional and corporate jobs to the city.

The Home Depot is the world’s largest home improvement retailer and will be constructing a new distribution center in Warren which would create around 80 jobs. 

Gov. Whitmer says, “Today’s expansions in Jackson and Warren by Commonwealth Industries and Home Depot will create and support 140 new good-paying jobs and build on our economic momentum. Let’s keep working together to grow our economy and create good-paying jobs.” 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Museums Hosts A Taste Of Soul For Black History Month

As Black History Month draws to a close there are still a few events left to attend if you’d like to learn a little bit more about the history and culture of African Americans.

The Port Huron Museum will be hosting the event “A Taste of Soul” presented by Black Lives Matter Port Huron Branch, and the Port Huron NAACP. The event is sponsored by the Community Foundation of St. Clair County. 

The event will be a live-tasting exhibit that touches on the origins of traditional “soul food” as well as other signature cuisines and beverages from the Caribbean Islands, and Africa provided by local and neighboring restaurants.  

A Taste of Soul will also highlight African American dance and music as it relates to history and culture as a race. There will be spoken word by local activists, along with live music from the Metro Soul Band which will perform from 12 noon – 1 p.m.  

The event is free, but you must RSVP by claiming a ticket at: eventbrite.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

The Underground Announces $5000 Emerge Fund Grant Open For Entrepreneurs

If you are or know an entrepreneur who could use some financial assistance, The Underground along with the Economic Development Alliance (EDA) are announcing that they are accepting first quarter applications for the new 2023 Emerge Fund through Monday, March 20th.

The 2023 Emerge Fund is geared towards for-profit small businesses operating or starting their business in St. Clair County. The maximum funding available per applicant is $5000. Smaller grants are available and are issued based on project impact and potential milestones. The funding is made possible in partnership with Huntington National Bank.

Those involved in technology are highly desired, but businesses in other sectors will be considered as well. 

Applicants who are approved can use the funding for things such as:

  • Creating a business plan
  • Developing a website
  • Marketing
  • Legal Services
  • And more…grants CANNOT be used as salary or income.

For more information, visit: startunderground.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Support The Hunter Hospitality House Hope Blooms Fundraiser

Fundraisers are one of the ways nonprofit organizations raise money to continue the service that they provide for the community. The Hunter Hospitality House is calling on the support of the community to continue their exceptional service. 

Their Hope Blooms annual fundraising dinner will be taking place on Thursday, April 27th at the Blue Water Convention Center located at 800 Harker street, Port Huron. The event is from 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m., with an optional early start time of 4:30 p.m. 

The Hope Blooms fundraiser will feature a delicious dinner, music from Jimmy DeHeno and Still Running, a $1000 cash drawing, raffle items, and more!

Hunter Hospitality House provides free lodging for qualified guests who require specific medical services or treatments. 

Ticket prices are $65 each and can be purchased online or by check.  

For more information, visit: hunterhospitalityhouse.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

$35M In Funds Set Aside For Nonprofit Relief

The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic affected many, including businesses and nonprofits, as well as the average citizen trying to make a living. The Michigan Nonprofit Relief Fund is looking to provide funding from their $35 million in funds for those nonprofits that served their communities during the pandemic. 

The Michigan Nonprofit Association (MNA) and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) have announced the launch of the “intent to apply” phase of the fund, which focuses on assisting small charitable nonprofits. The relief fund is a two-part grant program with an additional $15 million in grants available to larger nonprofits later this year.

To be eligible, organizations must be a Michigan-based, 501(c)(3) nonprofit or a fiscally sponsored project by a 501(C)(3). MNA membership is not required. 

To fill out the intent to apply, visit: MiNonprofitrelief.org. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

WGRT Wins Alignable’s 2023 Local Business Person Of The Year

We here at 102.3 FM WGRT would like to give a big thank you to the individuals and businesses on Alignable who voted to make us the 2023 Local Business Person of the Year!

Alignable is an online network that hosts more than 7 million members, and millions of connections across more than 35,000 local communities. Members use Alignable to get industry answers, connect with other businesses local or nationwide, and increase buzz for their business.

There was a top five list released by Alignable featuring WGRT’s Sales Account Manager, Vickie Lemonis winning the first place spot, followed by WGRT News Director, Choze Powell in second place. Third through fifth place in order were: Jim White of Luxury Bath By Mobility Remodelers, Michele D Jones of Country Style Marketplace, and the Economic Development Alliance (EDA). 

Again, we would like to say thank you to those who voted, and a huge congratulations to all those who were nominated! 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell