In the heart of downtown Ontonagon lies a unique establishment that is quickly becoming a community staple. Located right on Main Street, The Squeeze on Main is health-focused quick-service restaurant offering healthy, convenient food choices to the neighborhood. While you might not expect to find a health-focused eatery in such a small town, The Squeeze on Main is doing just that.
When The Squeeze opened its doors in 2022, it addressed something owner Kathy Wardynski had long noticed: the need to access to healthier, more convenient food options. She was right, because The Squeeze on Main has received an overwhelmingly positive response since opening. Over the past several years, Wardynski has adapted the business to meet the local demand. Today, customers can stop in for freshly prepared meals, shop for healthy grocery items, specialty products, locally sourced meats, and even enjoy the restaurant’s full-service bar. While the business has continued to grow and evolve, like many businesses in the UP, seasonal challenges still exist.
But why purchase a popcorn machine? Not only is the popcorn a delicious addition to the store’s offerings, but it has allowed the business to expand into other avenues. Firstly, it allows Wardynski to provide more work opportunities for her employees, especially during the slower winter months. “We can generate some revenue, keep people working, and use the extra labor more efficiently” she explains.
Since receiving the machine, The Squeeze produces several pounds of popcorn every day (and can barely keep it in stock!). The item’s popularity has created opportunities for their employes to be creative beyond their day-to-day tasks. “It gives employees the opportunity to not just work, but to invent things too,” says Wardynski. Currently, they offer several flavors, and are already exploring additional varieties to release in the future.
In addition, Wardynski hopes to use popcorn to support local fundraising efforts. The Squeeze on Main can sell or donate popcorn to fundraise for schools, churches, and other organizations. For example, “The junior class wants to raise money for prom.” Wardynski shares. “We are able to work with them on doing just that.”
The machine is transportable – so The Squeeze on Main can rent it out and provide fresh popcorn at events like graduation parties, weddings, and other community events. “We’ve already had some people ask when we’re available to pop for graduation parties or weddings this year!” Wardynski excitedly shared.
Reflecting on the grant funding, Wardynski notes the value of having MTEC’s support, stating:
“The grant took the risk out of investing into an unknown venture. We at the Squeeze have lots of experience and skill, but it’s nice to have access to MTEC, another voice to get ideas from or bounce existing ideas off of”.
Through programs like the Small Business Support Hub, The Squeeze on Main was able to turn an idea into a reality, proving that even a small investment can have a hugely positive impact on more than just a business, but the local community at large.
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The Squeeze on Main’s website can be found here.
For more information about the Small business Support Hub Program, visit our page here.
About the Small Business Support Hub Program
The Small Business Support Hub (SBSH) Program supports small businesses by connecting them with the proper resources to strengthen the regional business ecosystem. Through collaboration with local partners, the program works to help businesses grow, and prosper. The program is funded by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and reflects a continued investment in small business development and economic growth throughout Michigan.
About MTEC
Michigan Tech Enterprise Corporation (MTEC) is one of 21 SmartZones in the State of Michigan. MTEC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization working with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), its mission is to facilitate the creation and ongoing success of high-tech value propositions in conjunction with the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. Since 2003, the MTEC SmartZone has provided mentoring, technical support, and other services to local companies that have led to the creation of over 800 high-tech jobs in the Houghton and Hancock Michigan area.