The impacts of COVID-19 created significant challenges for small businesses across Michigan. More specifically, rural regions, like those in the Western UP, were impacted greatly. To help accelerate recovery and strengthen long-term stability, the State of Michigan has allocated COVID-relief funding to directly support small businesses that continue to feel these effects.
MTEC SmartZone, in partnership with the Small Business Deveopment Center, is serving as the fiduciary for a grant designed to assist small businesses throughout the Western Upper Peninsula.
The Small Business Support Hubs initiative, funded by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), expands the state’s commitment to rebuilding and empowering its entrepreneurial ecosystem. This program focuses on businesses disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, offering services tailored to the needs of their specific regions. Through individualized programming, local priorities, and strong partner networks, these hubs connect small business owners to the right tools and resources to stabilize, grow, and thrive post-COVID.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, an applicant must:
- Be a for-profit business physically located in the Western UP (Iron, Gogebic, Houghton, Keweenaw or Ontonagon County)
- Have engaged with MTEC SmartZone, Michigan SBDC, KEDA, or the MEDC within the past six months.
- Qualifying engagements include consultations, workshops, intake sessions, or other documented services.
- Quality as a Small Business in Michigan (fewer than 500 employees).
- Be able to demonstrate the ability to complete the proposed project and utilize funds within the required timeline.
Eligible Use of Funds
Grant funds may be used for:
- Hiring developers or outsourcing technical work (software, AI, web/app development)
- Marketing and advertising efforts
- Purchasing hardware or equipment
- Buying software, tools, or digital subscriptions
- Technical or professional services that support business growth
Prohibited Use of Funds
Funds may not be used for:
- Rent, utilities, payroll, or regular operating expenses.
- Building construction, renovations, or major infrastructure.
- Membership renewals, recurring licensing fees, or ongoing subscriptions.
- Expenses reimbursed through other state or federal programs.
- Activities or purchases that conflict with SBSH, MTEC, KEDA, or MEDC rules and restrictions.
Deadlines
- Obligation Deadline: February 1, 2026
- Project Completion Deadline: September 30, 2026
Program Goals:
- Support small businesses recovering from COVID-19 impacts by providing targeted financial assistance.
- Increase access to critical resources for entrepreneurs in rural and underserved regions of the Upper Peninsula
- Provide resources to companies already engaging with MTEC SmartZone or the SBDC.
- Strengthen the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem by deepening connections between businesses and support organizations.
- Empower local businesses to innovate, expand, and contribute to community growth.
