The SBSH Scoop | Retail Bootcamp?
Retail is at the heart of so many of our Eastern U.P. communities—whether it’s a shop on a main street, a pop-up at the market, or a family business that’s been around for decades. But let’s be real: starting, jump-starting, or even resurrecting a retail business isn’t easy.
Here’s the good news: TechTown in Detroit created a Retail Bootcamp that has already helped countless businesses get off the ground and thrive. And now? They’re willing to help us bring it right here to the Eastern U.P.
So here’s the ask: Would you join a focus group to talk about what our local retail businesses really need? Your voice could shape what this bootcamp looks like—whether you’re a retailer now, dreaming of becoming one, or just rooting for a stronger local shopping scene.
If this sounds interesting, start with Miche Rayment, our SBSH liaison and resident connector. She’ll listen, get your ideas, and make sure you’re part of the conversation. Why not reach out and see what happens?
Business Spotlight | Prime Used Parts
What this SBSH grant funding truly represents is an opportunity for a more sustainable business.
Prime Used Parts isn’t your typical used auto parts yard—it’s a business built on precision, efficiency, and a deep commitment to sustainability. Founded by Julian Locke, this Eastern U.P. operation is grounded in the fact that over 86% of a vehicle can be recycled. Instead of leaving cars to rust in a “junkyard,” Julian and his team carefully reclaim, clean, and test each part before it goes up for resale. The result? Reliable, affordable parts that extend the life of vehicles and reduce waste.
With support from the SBSH direct grant program in 2024, Prime Used Parts invested in new desktops, specialized software, and pallet tracking systems—upgrades that streamlined operations and boosted efficiency across the board. It’s the kind of infrastructure investment that helps a good business grow into a great one.
For Julian, this is more than a business—it’s a way to show that sustainability and quality can go hand-in-hand. Next time you need a part, skip the big-box online shops and check out what’s right here in our own backyard.
Learn more: primeusedparts.com
Email: info@primeusedparts.com
Phone: 906.259.1111
SMART Workshops | Get your Employee Handbook Done
People in the Know | Your Local Economic Development Peeps
An Employee Handbook Without the Headache
Led by HR expert Robin Chapekis of SvelteHR, this 3-hour workshop will help you create a compliant, practical employee handbook you can actually use (and keep updated). Already have a handbook? Bring it along and Robin will help you upgrade it on the spot.
When: October 29, 2025 | 8:30 AM – Noon
Where: Chippewa County EDC offices, 5019 W Airport Drive, Kincheloe, MI
Here are more people you can connect with when you are looking for resources and connections.
- Tammy Henry - Luce County - director@lucecoedc.com
- Chris Olson - Chippewa County - admin@chippewacountyedc.com
- Tara Parrish - Bay Mills Indian Community - tparrish@baymills.org
- Nikki Radke - City Sault Ste Marie - nradke@saultcity.com
- Bob Sawruk - Sault Tribe - RSawruk@saulttribe.net
- Miche Rayment - EUP region at large (and Mackinac County) - Miche@HeadwatersNorth.org