SMART Workshop #6 | Work Smarter Together
Ready to turn your group into a true team?
In this hands‑on session with Diane Ratigan‑Schmidt, you’ll uncover what makes your crew click (and what secretly slows them down), spotlight strengths, and sidestep blind spots. Walk away knowing how to tap your team’s full brainpower—so you can stop micromanaging and start truly moving!
Date: Wednesday, May 6, 8:30am-Noon
Location: Sault Ste Marie Economic Development Offices, 2345 Meridian Road, Sault Ste Marie, MI
SMART Workshop #8 | Leading Your Legacy
Strategist Dave Haviland of Phimation will walk you through practical, repeatable frameworks that make strategic planning clear and doable, no matter what time of year you can do it. You’ll leave with a framework for building a 1 and 5 year roadmap, a North Star action plan for daily focus, and thoughts for a smart exit strategy that turns your business into an asset, not just a job. Because “someday” isn’t a date on the calendar—let’s design your future before it’s decided for you.
Date: Wednesday, June 17, 8:30am-Noon
Location: Center for Freshwater Research & Education, 100 Salmon Run Way, Sault Ste Marie, MI
Business Spotlights | Precision Edge Outdoor Services, LLC
What this SBSH grant funding truly represents is an opportunity for a more sustainable business. Let us tell you about this one!
Precision Edge Outdoor Services in St. Ignace proves a small business can punch above its weight when growth is fueled by community support. Thanks to the SBSH direct grant from Round 2, the crew added backpack blowers, a weed trimmer, and a push mower, tools that sharpen efficiency, safety, and the workday in a hurry. With these upgrades, they’re not just mowing lawns; they’re building a sharper, steadier business on solid ground. Talk about cutting-edge momentum!
Today they manage 33 commercial properties and winter plow duties, backed by two full-time staff and one part-time teammate all who return for summer help, keeping the mow-mentum rolling. (ha - oh the pun) Their motto? Don’t fear to fail and put in the hard work, growth will follow. The gear upgrade translates to quicker turnovers and a true one-stop shop: lawn care, landscaping, and snow, all under one roof. It’s a tidy package with staying power.
In a region with several lawn and snow pros, Precision Edge shines as a St. Ignace gem, brightening spaces and boosting curb appeal. Spring cleanups are hot, word-of-mouth is the engine, and owners love the after-photos that prove a space can be transformed and used again.
It’s care that lasts, a service that makes the community proud.
Call Kyle at 906.440.7553.
SBA | Lender In Person Matchmaking Event - You in?
Looking for financing to grow your business?
Here’s your chance to meet face‑to‑face with SBA‑approved lenders ready to support rural small businesses in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
- Apply by April 30 2026
- Work with the SBDC and local business experts to fine‑tune your loan readiness
- Take part in this exclusive live lender matchmaking event on June 26, 9-11 am, Chippewa County EDC, 5019 W. Airport Road, Kincheloe, MI
Your next financial partner could be waiting!
Spots are limited, so submit your borrower application
Download this application form and email it directly to: Latifa Bradwell at latifa.bradwell@sba.gov
Your Turn | How Are We Doing?
You’re out there running businesses, juggling everything from inventory to snowbanks — so you know better than anyone what works, what doesn’t, and what you wish we’d do next.
Help us make our programming and communications even better.
Totally anonymous. Zero pressure.
Got a minute? Share what you are thinking.
And yes, we appreciate compliments but would hear criticism with a humble and grateful heart too!
People in the Know | Your Local Economic Development Peeps
Here are more people you can connect with when you are looking for resources and connections.
- Bob Sawruk - Sault Tribe - RSawruk@saulttribe.net
- Chris Olson - Chippewa County - admin@chippewacountyedc.com
- Nikki Radke - City of Sault Ste Marie - nradke@saultcity.com
- Miche Rayment - EUP region at large (and Mackinac County) - Miche@HeadwatersNorth.org
- Tammy Henry - Luce County - director@lucecoedc.com
- Tara Parrish - Bay Mills Indian Community - tparrish@baymills.org