Advancing Entrepreneurism

In the Eastern Upper Peninsula

What We Offer

As a SmartZone, we assist, support, develop and help grow businesses in the local community. Our services are tools for entrepreneurs looking to grow an existing business or develop an idea.

Office Space

The SmartZone building offers many amenities and resources to new and developing companies.

Mentorship

Mentorship looks like business development classes, assisting in the search of funding support and more.

Networking

Networking is a vital part of the entrepreneur's journey and Headwaters works to connect and grow the entrepreneurial network in the Eastern Upper Peninsula.

Learn More

About Us

Headwaters North is part of a network of Michigan SmartZones that support and develop new and early-stage businesses in the Eastern Upper Peninsula.

Create

Inspire

Educate &

Develop

Collaborate & Leverage

Attract

Nikki Storey Named CEO of Headwaters North

Headwaters North announced the appointment of Nikki Storey as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Storey brings more than a decade of leadership experience as President of the Marine Trades Institute (MTI), formerly Great Lakes Boat Building School, where she built one of the nation’s most respected marine education and workforce development institutions. Her appointment signals a bold new chapter for Headwaters North and the broader Sault Ste. Marie innovation corridor.

“Nikki is a visionary leader with deep roots in this region and an extraordinary reputation for turning bold ideas into real-world results,” said Mayor Don Gerrie, Chairman of the Headwaters North Board. “She understands how to grow talent, attract investment, and build coalitions—all of which are essential as we work to position the Soo as a hub for Blue Economy innovation.”