Opening Doors for Small Businesses
Supporting businesses, strengthening communities
Northern Initiatives provides money and know-how to small business owners throughout Michigan. We support business startups, business expansions and greater empowerment for everyone living in under-invested communities. Access to capital is only part of the equation though. Northern Initiatives provides coaching, resources and tools to help our customers achieve their goals.
Featured Success Stories
$116M
Given in small
business loans
100%
8,000
Total jobs created and retained by our small business loans
44%
Of our 2025 customers were rural
Our Impact
Our impact is measured through the success of our businesses and their employees. We have been able to give loans to hundreds of businesses and helped businesses create thousands of jobs, but our real success is when we see businesses across our region thrive. You can help us support that vision with a gift or ongoing partnership.
We Say Yes When Banks Can't
Business Lending
Need a Small Business Loan, But Can’t Get Bank Financing? We Can Help
Our lending team looks at character and cash flow. We can help your business get off the ground or continue growing with loans from $1,000 to $500,000. We even have interest-free loans for UPPCO small business customers working on energy efficiency projects.
Business Support
We Stay With You After the Loan
Starting a business takes more than just money, it takes know-how. Our team is focused on providing both so your business soars. We have tools, templates, videos and individual coaching to ensure you have what you need to succeed.
30 Years of Stories ... and We're Just Getting Started
Northern Initiatives’ small business customers span the state; there’s no doubt one in your community, maybe even in your block. We love telling their stories – and having them help us tell ours. Watch the video!
