The SBSH Scoop | Get Your Support - You Deserve It
Running a business can feel like juggling flaming torches—but you don’t have to do it alone! The Small Business Support Hub grant program connects you with expert guidance to steady, strengthen, and grow your business.
Start with a free, confidential 30‑minute conversation with SBSH Liaison Miche Rayment, your go‑to matchmaker for business expertise. Together, you’ll uncover the advice and resources that can make the biggest difference—from finance to leadership to strategy.
Business Spotlights | The Mackinac Fudge Shop
What this SBSH grant funding truly represents is an opportunity for a more sustainable business. Let us tell you about this one!
Mackinac Fudge Shop in St. Ignace is proof that life really is sweeter in Michigan’s Eastern U.P. Family‑run and full of heart, the crew have turned their passion for handmade fudge and candy into a hometown treasure.
Now located at 647 W. US‑2, the shop has a fresh new look—complete with sparkling bakery cases, a welcoming reception counter (thanks to an SBSH direct grant), and all the charm you’d expect from people who truly love what they do. Their fudge is melt‑in‑your‑mouth perfection, their homemade chocolates and popcorn are local legends, and shelves brim with maple syrup, taffy, rock candy, and treats for every sweet tooth in the family.
Customers rave about the quality (and often come back for more), and the team’s excitement is downright contagious. They’re already dreaming up whimsical window art for 2026—because if you’re going to make fudge, you might as well make it fun!
Stop by or find them online through the Mackinac Fudge Shop Facebook page. Whether you love classic fudge or crave something new, this family’s got you covered—one delicious bite at a time.
SMART Workshop #7 and #6 | Marketing Bootcamp & Teamwork
Two fabulous workshops coming up - one is next week!
Workshop #7 - Marketing Bootcamp with Matt Monte
Marketing doesn’t have to be a mystery! In this energetic Marketing Bootcamp with Matt, you’ll cut through the noise, get clear on what really drives results, and walk away with practical next steps you can put to work right away. It’s strategy made simple, and marketing that finally makes sense!
Date: Wednesday, April 15, 8:30am-Noon
Location: Center for Freshwater Research and Education
100 Salmon Run Way
Sault Ste Marie, MI
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
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