Request for Proposals: StartUp Battle Creek

In Battle Creek, Michigan, a team of local, regional and national experts are accelerating the focus on economic development. A growing collaboration is already underway. Our common goal? To create a vibrant economic climate in Battle Creek – a place where all children and their families can thrive.

Is your organization skilled at coaching and mentoring new entrepreneurs? Do you have experience providing an array of start-up services and robust technical assistance so new businesses are ready to successfully launch and grow? Do you know of individuals and organizations that might be interested in supporting entrepreneurship in Battle Creek, Michigan? We’re looking for an Entrepreneurship Support Organization to support new start-up businesses in Battle Creek.  Our recently announced Battle Creek Small Business Loan Fund is designed to provide local start-ups and growing businesses with access to capital. 

Start-up support is an essential part of the City of Battle Creek’s comprehensive re-development plan, and critical to creating a thriving and equity-driven entrepreneurial ecosystem. The Kellogg Foundation will invest in a new Entrepreneurship Support Organization to help local residents nurture, refine and turn their ideas into businesses. The finalist selected will begin by the end of 2018.

The online application is now open. Proposals will be accepted until August 3, 2018.

Please send all questions to bcrfp@wkkf.org.