Josh’s Frogs: Leaping over potential obstacles
“SIG was far more of a value-add than I expected, both from a knowledge standpoint and a relationship standpoint,” says Josh Willard.
Battling bureaucracy: Scale while preserving your entrepreneurial DNA
Although bureaucracy is not usually a problem for second-stage companies, it’s something that business owners need to be aware of…
Beards Brewery: Crafting a more resilient company
“It’s easy to start a small business, but once you hit second stage, you encounter unique challenges,” says Ben Slocum, co-founder of Beards Brewery.
Online oomph: 7 steps to better virtual programs
Colleen Killen-Roberts looks at 7 best practices that have helped the Edward Lowe Foundation pivot from in-person programs to online ones…
boldSOCKS: Finding a foothold in custom products
Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, boldSOCKS aims to be a one-stop shop for socks — and a model for social impact…
Old school or new school, micromanaging doesn’t make the grade
Micromanagers are typically viewed as people who provide too much feedback, who are constantly looking over your shoulder and telling you how to do something. Yet a recent Gallup article points to a modern version of micromanagers…
Our new normal: expanding virtual programs
Previously I’ve talked about the foundation’s partnership strategy to work with advocates of entrepreneurship-led economic development (ELED). The pandemic has been a real proof of this strategy — especially when it comes to organizations that are truly passionate about ELED…
Back to Big Rock Valley
Now that Governor Whitmer has rescinded her Safer at Home order, Edward Lowe Foundation employees are beginning to return to Big Rock Valley, our headquarters’ property in Southwest Michigan…
8 steps to navigating uncertainty
As business leaders struggle to navigate COVID-19, one of the most difficult challenges is dealing with the many levels of uncertainty…
Relationships matter: 5 steps to stronger partnerships
“People Need People” was the title of my second-grade reading textbook. My 7-year-old mind was curious about this title choice, but it wasn’t until much later that I really understood its meaning…