Local First West Michigan

Local First West Michigan A business membership program that builds people-centered economies and celebrates local ownership.
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Don’t miss the new exhibit, Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen featuring Black Wings: American Dreams in Flight....
05/27/2026

Don’t miss the new exhibit, Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen featuring Black Wings: American Dreams in Flight.

Together, this dynamic exhibit explores multiple aspects of aviation, from the rich history of the Tuskegee Airmen to 21st century STEM concepts. Inspired by the tools and tasks related to flying and aeronautics, opening on May 23 at the Grand Rapids Children's Museum.

For more information, visit www.grcm.org. ⭐️ This exhibit is locally sponsored by The David and Carol Van Andel Family Foundation, the Steelcase Foundation, and the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

The exhibit will be on display until September 6, 2026.

Need help navigating Local First membership or business challenges?Our Local First Support Hour provides a welcoming spa...
05/07/2026

Need help navigating Local First membership or business challenges?

Our Local First Support Hour provides a welcoming space to ask questions, explore resources, and connect with our team. 💜

🔗 Click the link to sign up: https://loom.ly/RXdgxKI

04/23/2026

Episode 12 | People Behind the Business

Keeping your dollars close to home helps strengthen your local economy.
Matt Cook, Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility, and Scott Wiggins, Vice President of Small Business Lending, from LMCU joined us for a dynamic conversation about the benefits of switching to local financial institutions. From supporting small businesses to reinvesting in the community, local banking keeps money working where it matters most.

Tune in to learn why making the switch could make a meaningful impact right here in your community.

Learn more about the Move Your Money initiative:
https://peoplefirsteconomy.org/move-your-money/

Check out the full interview here: https://youtu.be/VPAJcK3bbvo

04/08/2026

Episode 11 | People Behind the Business

Our next interview highlights the power of banking locally.
Tammy Karas, Vice President and Branch Officer at United Bank of Michigan, shares how community-focused financial institutions support local businesses, families, and neighborhoods.

Learn how moving your money can strengthen your local economy.

Explore the Move Your Money initiative here:
https://peoplefirsteconomy.org/move-your-money/

Check out our Youtube page here: https://youtu.be/76NcW0CzAYg

04/03/2026

Looking for a friendly, locally owned, in your neighborhood flooring store? We’ve got you covered!
Wealthy Street
Uptown Grand Rapids
East Hills Council of Neighbors
Local First West Michigan


Have questions about Local First? 🔍 We’re here to help.Join our Local First Support Hour for free, drop-in guidance, hel...
04/03/2026

Have questions about Local First? 🔍 We’re here to help.

Join our Local First Support Hour for free, drop-in guidance, helpful resources, and real-time problem solving designed for local businesses.

Click the link to sign up: https://loom.ly/zSvZpNc

Join us for our Local First Support Hour! These support hours offer free, drop-in guidance, resource connections, and re...
03/06/2026

Join us for our Local First Support Hour! These support hours offer free, drop-in guidance, resource connections, and real-time problem solving for challenges your business is facing.
✨ Register now!
https://loom.ly/K9ViRpk

02/27/2026

🎥 Our next Biz 101 video is all about adaptability in today’s economy.
Dr. Danielle, our Senior Manager for Business Support shares why businesses that stay flexible, rather than rigid, are better positioned to navigate constant change.

💡 Consider this:
• Offer new services
• Adjust pricing strategies
• Explore new revenue streams
Research shows that businesses adopting new tools and staying agile outperform those that remain rigid. (GITNUX)

👉 Tune in and learn how to build resilience into your business model.

Everybody give a warm welcome to our newest Local First Members! 💜We’re honored to grow our coalition of businesses help...
02/09/2026

Everybody give a warm welcome to our newest Local First Members! 💜
We’re honored to grow our coalition of businesses helping build an economy centered on local ownership.

🍷 Happy Bar – Elevating events with professional bar services and memorable beverage experiences.
🏠 Edison Brokers + Co – Client-focused real estate experts helping buyers and sellers reach the closing table with confidence.
🖥️ Media Place Partners – Strategic media planning and marketing solutions that turn leads into lasting growth.
👨‍💻 Organizational Talent Consulting – Supporting leaders through executive coaching and organizational strategy.

Join us in welcoming these incredible businesses to the community!

02/06/2026

🎓 Our first Biz 101 series is here! Tune in as Dr. Danielle, our Senior Manager for Business Support, breaks down what sustainability in business really means.

Spoiler alert: it’s not just recycling and reducing waste. It’s also about building financial systems that keep your business strong and sustainable for the long haul.

As Dr. Danielle says: “Build a business that can support you, not drain you.”

💡 Did you know? Research shows SMEs with strong environmental, social, and governance practices often see higher sales growth, stronger profitability, and improved access to financing. (Zuno Carbon)

👉 Join us and start building a business that lasts.

Address

1209 Kalamazoo Avenue SE
Grand Rapids, MI
49507

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

(616) 808-3788

Website

https://www.peoplefirsteconomy.org/local-first/use-the-directory/

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