PeerSpectives evolution: New roundtables in Michigan
In Spring 2024 we launched our first in-person roundtables in Grand Rapids and Lansing, Michigan. Below is a quick look at some of the participants’ feedback…
Camron Gnass of Traction Brands
“The beauty of SIG is that it helps entrepreneurs know what they don’t know,” says Camron Gnass of Traction Brands. “SIG isn’t a space where participants sign up to solve a specific problem or task. Instead, the process helps business owners truly understand what is holding them back.”
Value creation: Know what problem you’re solving
Like employees, CEOs often become confused about where they add value in their companies…
From 40 to forever: Ed Lowe’s dream
This year marks a huge milestone for the Edward Lowe Foundation. On Sept. 3, 2025, we will celebrate 40 years of “championing the entrepreneurial spirit.”
Levare and Anders Construction
John Anders discusses the evolution of Anders Construction, his Louisiana-based commercial diving and marine services business. Anders says that programs co-hosted by the Edward Lowe Foundation and Louisiana Economic Development have helped him innovate and create new jobs. Case in point: Levare, Anders’ new company, provides a more efficient and effective system to repair structural pilings on aging infrastructure.
Travis Stoliker: Rocking chair reflections
“It was the first time I had deliberately disconnected from all electronic distractions for three full days,” says Travis Stoliker of his Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) retreat.
Embracing organizational change
Our organization has always been relatively stable. Many employees have been with the Edward Lowe Foundation for more than 20 years — some for more than 30. So, I intuitively knew that our workforce was graying, but…
Three filters for leading through adversity
Confronting adversity, whether in the business realm or our personal lives, can enable individuals to reach deep within themselves and make important discoveries…
Prescribed burn update 2024
As part of the Edward Lowe Foundation’s conservation mission, we’ve been restoring areas of Big Rock Valley (BRV), our 2,000-acre campus in southwest Michigan, back to native landscapes…
Creative Studio Promotions & Technology
Ann Vidro and Menda Wright are co-founders of Creative Studio Promotions & Technology, which provides customized promotional merchandise and online employee stores. Based in Grand Rapids, Creative Studio has received numerous accolades, including being named the 2021 Distributor Entrepreneurs of the Year by the Advertising Specialty Institute and making the Inc. 5,000 list for eight consecutive years.