Click here to apply for the BUILD Institute course (Winter 2022 Course): HERE
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Level UP Small Business Technical Assistance Grants
Vanguard CDC, through the generous support of Detroit LISC, has created the Level UP Small Business Technical Assistance Program to provide support for small businesses in the North End/Milwaukee Junction community. Recognizing that small businesses provide local jobs, stabilize neighborhoods and create a sense of community, the technical assistance provided through this program will enable participating small businesses to establish or enhance foundational systems for the sustainability of their businesses. A recent survey of small businesses conducted by the Small Business Association of Michigan revealed that more than 77 percent reported that COVID-19 had a negative impact on their business in 2020, with 67 percent reporting that they are still feeling the effects.
The goal of this program is to provide eligible small businesses, located in the North End/Milwaukee Junction community, with resources need to start or enhance their businesses and better prepare them for ongoing effects of the pandemic on their business. More specifically, small businesses can apply to receive one of the following services:
- Professional accounting or legal assistance, or
- Scholarship to attend Build Institute courses
By providing access to these services, local businesses will have access to professional services without the relevant cost burden. The Level Up Technical Assistance grants will cover the costs normally associated with these services for selected businesses.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be the owner of a start-up or early stage business located in the North End/Milwaukee Junction community (home-based businesses are eligible)
- Must be willing to commit the time to complete the work associated with the technical assistance
- Must submit a completed application by the application deadline
- Businesses selected for the technical assistance grants must be willing to attend an orientation and sign a participation agreement
Application Process & Timeline
Applications will be available on-line at https://northenddetroit.life/resources/ beginning on October 15, 2021. Questions regarding the program and applications can be submitted to Lisa Tucker at ltucker@vanguardcdc.org or 313-462-4300.