KEY SUPPORT SERVICES
 

DOWNTOWN BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Search for downtown business-to-business services.

 

SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN FIRST

Southwest Michigan First is the economic catalyst stimulating growth across the Kalamazoo Region. Whether you're a site selector, an investor, an entrepreneur or part of an existing company looking to grow, Southwest Michigan First has the resources and expertise to assist you in identifying and surpassing your goals.

 

KALAMAZOO REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to help members grow and prosper through leadership, programs and services focused on competitiveness, community improvement, and regional cooperation. More than 1,800 members that employ nearly 70,000 people, it is the largest private, voluntary business association in southwest Michigan.

 

KALAMAZOO PUBLIC LIBRARY  

The Kalamazoo Public Library offers an easily accessed and comprehensive source for the information needed by local businesses. Our library staff is available to assist with your business research needs. In addition to our print collection, the library offers several helpful online databases that can be accessed either from home or inside of the library. Capable and trained staff can help find the information you need to be successful in your business pursuits, including materials on how to:

 

  • start and run your small business

  • obtain a business loan

  • locate competitors within specific markets

  • manage tax, legal and accounting issues

  • identify business sources, buyer guides, manufacturers, and distributors

  • search for marketing, demographic and minority business information

 KPL’s Small Business Collection is located in one easy-to-access area behind the reference desk on the second floor. Here, you will find helpful books to borrow and for reference, plus pamphlets and other materials. For more information call 269-553-7844 or visit us online at www.kpl.gov/business

 

SMALL BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY & DEVELOPMENT CENTER  

The Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center regional office, affiliated with Haworth College of Business at Western Michigan University is one of 12 offices statewide, providing a full range of services for small businesses emerging and growing throughout Southwest Michigan - including new venture companies, existing businesses, expanding businesses, and technology companies.  Support to the Michigan small business community includes free one-on-one counseling, training courses, and research.

 

DOWNTOWN RETAIL AND RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION  

The Downtown Restaurant and Retailers Association is comprised of downtown Kalamazoo Retailers dedicated to the growth and vitality of the retail industry in downtown Kalamazoo.

 

CITY OF KALAMAZOO  

We are an All-American organization committed to public service, with a “can do” attitude to make Kalamazoo a livable and sustainable community for all citizens. We strive to create a work environment driven by enthusiasm, where innovation and risk taking are encouraged and rewarded. We respect the diversity of our co-workers and recognize change as an opportunity, and value teamwork, honesty, and integrity. We celebrate and learn from our successes and failures, and use those lessons to guide us in our work to make Kalamazoo the best city possible.

 

MICHIGAN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION  

For any company already in Michigan or considering a location in the state, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) offers one-stop business assistance. Our business development managers work with consultants, utilities, associations and local economic development agencies to best match businesses' needs with Michigan's opportunities. From attractive financing through our $2 billion 21st Century Jobs Fund to significant and long-term tax abatements, few places can offer a more attractive financial package. The MEDC is also the channel for continuous improvement of the state's business climate.