organizations

Organizations
(listed alphabetically)

Starting and operating a business can be a difficult and complex process. Prospective and current business owners are faced with many challenges such as developing a business plan, obtaining financing, obtaining licenses and permits, hiring employees, and many other issues.

Although business owners face many challenges they are not alone. There are a number of organizations that can provide assistance.

Chambers of Commerce

Contact:

Evart Chamber of Commerce
P.O. Box 668

Evart, MI 49631

(231) 734-9799

LeRoy Area Chamber of Commerce
4760 N. Mackinaw Trail

LeRoy, MI 49655

(231) 768-4558

Marion Chamber of Commerce

(231) 743-2975

Reed City Area Chamber of Commerce

211 W. Upton Ave., Suite A

Reed City, MI

(231) 832-5431

Osceola Economic Alliance

The Osceola Economic Alliance (OEA) is the county's community and economic development organization. The OEA's mission is to "encourage and facilitate community and economic development in Osceola County, Michigan".

The OEA's primary customers are manufacturers, small businesses, and local units of government. You are already familiar with the OEA's website; however, the OEA also provides business counseling and referrals, research services, and serves as a central point of contact for small business questions.

Contact:

Dan Massy, Community & Economic Developer

301 W. Upton

Reed City, MI 49677

(231) 832-7397

Procurement Technical Assistance Centers

The mission of the Procurement Technical Assistance Centers of Michigan is to enhance national defense and economic development within the State of Michigan by assisting Michigan businesses in obtaining and performing on federal, state and local government contracts; thus ensuring a broad base of capable suppliers for the defense industry and other agencies.

There are 13 Procurement Technical Assistance Center offices located throughout Michigan. Procurement Technical Assistance Centers offer marketing, technical consulting and training to businesses in the state, specifically:

     ● Orientation to the Procurement System
     ● Linking Local Companies to Federal and State Government Agencies
     ● Bid Match for Government Solicitations
     ● Training Seminars and Conferences
     ● Contracting Opportunities
     ● Subcontracting Opportunities
     ● Government Specifications
     ● Bid History and Contract Award Results
     ● Bid Package Assistance

Contact:

Shelia Polacco
10765 Northland Drive

Big Rapids, MI 49307

(231) 796-4484

Michigan State University Product Center

The MSU Product Center for Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) can help you develop and commercialize high value, consumer-responsive products and businesses in the agriculture and natural food sectors. Whether you are a budding entrepreneur or an established company, the Center is your key to the front door of MSU's vast and varied technical expertise, research, outreach, and educational services.

Visit the Product Center's website for information concerning their programs and services.

Contact:

MSU Product Center
Venture Development Office
Michigan State University
101 Farrall Hall
East Lansing, MI 48824-1324

Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)

The Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) is a nationwide non-profit association dedicated to entrepreneur education and the formation, growth, and success of small businesses. SCORE serves as a resource partner with the Small Business Administration (SBA). Working and retired executives and business owners donate their time and expertise as volunteer business counselors and provide confidential counseling and mentoring free of charge. SCORE assists approximately 300,000 entrepreneurs annually.

Contact:

Big Rapids office

(231) 796-7649

Cadillac office

(231) 775-9776

Michigan SCORE District 515 office
(231) 893-3151

Osceola Economic Alliance
301 W. Upton ● Reed City, MI 49677
Phone: 231-832-7397 ● Fax: 231-832-3381
Email the OEA

August 21, 2008