Thursday, February 12, 2026

Project Point to Help Business Start-Ups and Growth in Escanaba: Could it have an impact the downtown and the local economy?

(Illustrative Only)

If you have an idea
start by attending events and
creating a business plan. 

10 Steps to Starting
a Business-SBA
Rejuvenation and growth come from both economic and social development. On the economic side, communities benefit from strong financial planning, infrastructure, zoning, education, and the marketing of new opportunities. On the social side, growth happens when people get involved—joining local organizations like the Chamber of Commerce, taking courses, attending events, supporting downtown shops, and committing to building businesses in the area.

Not every business will succeed, and many young entrepreneurs don’t always know the next steps to turn an idea into something real.  Yet not only will some succeed a few will really take off with the potential to transform towns. That’s why these courses and programs matter. They spark creativity, share practical knowledge, and connect people with those who know how to make things happen.

(One might also consider socials of start-up businesses to help people learn from each other and connect to people who can help them.)

A single startup downtown can transform more than just one building. It can improve surrounding properties, raise tax values, and draw more people into the area. When customers visit one shop, they often stop at others. Positive exposure can also attract new investments—not just small business owners looking to relocate, but also mid- and large-scale investors, as we’ve seen with companies like Billerud and Amazon.

Teaching people how to develop their businesses has a long-term impact on economic growth. Tourism and downtown revitalization go hand in hand as well; people enjoy browsing local shops and discovering unique items. It impacts quality of life, draws more dollars for local wealth, and foaster retention and development in larger anchor businesses. 

If you have an interest in starting a business or expanding one in the area, consider reaching out to these organizers to see what they offer. Congratulations on another milestone in our community’s development. It is this kind of forward thinking is what creates new opportunities. You might not fully see the impact yet but you will. 

How Cities Can Spark Economic Transformation through Entrepreneur-Led Economic Development

Project Point Workshop Series: Helping Delta County Businesses Grow

The Escanaba Downtown Development Authority and the Delta County Economic Development Alliance are launching Project Point, a monthly workshop series designed for both current business owners and new entrepreneurs in Delta County.

Event Details
Location: Escanaba City Hall, 410 Ludington St, Escanaba, MI 49829
When: Second Wednesday of each month
Time: 3:00–5:00 PM
Cost: Free
Hosted by: Downtown Escanaba, Delta County Chamber of Commerce, and Escanaba DDA
Info & registration: https://escanabadda.org/project-point

Each session focuses on a different area of business—from launching a startup to strengthening and growing an established operation. The format is moderator-style, encouraging audience participation and discussion.

Kickoff Workshop was Held – February 11-Contact to Get Involved.
Featuring the Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Presented by Nicole Young Potvin, SBDC consultant, entrepreneur, and marketing specialist.

Topics include:
• Accessing free SBDC one-on-one consulting
• Writing a business plan
• Pricing strategies
• Marketing support and research
• Buying or selling a business
• Additional tools and resources for local businesses

SBDC’s no-cost services offer practical support to help businesses stay competitive in a changing market.

Why Attend?
“Taking time for workshops is crucial for business owners to stay competitive and adapt to evolving market trends,” — Ed Legault, Executive Director, Delta County EDA
“It’s like attending a business conference every month.” — Craig Woerpel, Executive Director, Escanaba DDA

Participants will leave with fresh ideas, practical strategies, and new connections with fellow business owners.

Bonus: DDA Business Partners Committee
Right after each workshop, the DDA Business Partners Committee meets at 5 PM at City Hall. It’s a chance to stay updated on downtown initiatives, including February’s Restaurant Week.

Join us each month as we work together to grow, strengthen, and launch businesses across Delta County.


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