The SBSH Scoop | Making Business Feel Less Like a Solo Sport
Since the beginning, the Small Business Support Hub here in the Eastern UP has been driven by one simple goal: help the businesses that already make our communities tick become stronger and more sustainable. Sure, we love cheering on the new startups too—but what really fuels us is making a lasting impact on the Eastern UP’s economic health.
So what are we up to? Glad you asked.
We’re bringing you experts who help you get real, useful stuff done. Think writing an employee handbook without losing your mind (thanks, Robin, for next week’s SMART Workshop!) or building a team that actually works well together (Tyler, that one’s all you in November).
We’re leveling up with even more SMART Sessions this winter. From getting a patent and securing loans to hiring the right people, fixing credit scores, and marketing like a boss—you’ll get expert-led guidance that’s practical, powerful, and ready to use right away.
We’re connecting you with the people who make business better. Innovators, connectors, and fellow owners who believe in collaboration over competition. Around here, we don’t just “network”—we conspire for collective success.
Check out upcoming events or stream past SMART Sessions at headwatersnorth.org/support-small-businesses. Or reach out to our own business whisperer, Miche Rayment (Miche@HeadwatersNorth.org), to find your next best move.
You’re already putting in the hard work—let’s make sure you’ve got the support to make it really pay off.
Business Spotlight | Maple Hardwoods, Inc.
What this SBSH grant funding truly represents is an opportunity for a more sustainable business.
From stump to board, Maple Hardwoods, Inc. is growing strong in the Eastern Upper Peninsula—literally and figuratively. They are just now settling into their new facility at the Chippewa County EDC in Kincheloe, this family-founded company is building on decades of experience and investing in the future of local manufacturing.
With help from the Small Business Support Hub (SBSH) grant, Maple Hardwoods is upscaling the technology in their front offices—making communication, coordination, and business operations smoother than ever. Pair that with other strategic grants, like the one from MDARD supporting local loggers, and you get a business that’s not just growing, but doing it smart. These combined investments have made Maple Hardwoods’ delivery and collection systems more reliable and sustainable, helping them stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.
Under Andrew’s leadership, the team has expanded from 20–25 employees to over 40 in just a few years. They produce green hardwood lumber and provide transportation of local hardwoods—connecting the EUP’s resources with customers across the region. In a place where year-round employment can be hard to come by, Maple Hardwoods stands out for offering steady, good-paying jobs with benefits.
Their impact runs deep. About 75–80% of their revenue flows right back into the local economy—through wages, transportation partners, and regional suppliers. With plans to strengthen rail connections and improve access to broader markets, Maple Hardwoods is creating a bridge from the forests of the EUP to the rest of the world.
Started by Andrew’s dad 30 years ago and still very much a family effort, Maple Hardwoods continues to grow with its roots firmly planted in community and sustainability.
Learn more or connect with the team at Maple Hardwoods on Facebook or email Brittany@Maple-Hardwoods.com.
SMART Workshops
#2 - Get your Employee Handbook Done (NEXT WEDNESDAY)
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
#3 - Strategy and Operations
Hands On Strategy & Systems | Your Playbook in a Day
Every small business needs a playbook — a clear vision, measurable goals, and simple systems that everyone can follow. In this hands-on SMART Workshop, operations expert Tyler Sharette will guide you step-by-step through building one. You’ll define your vision, set practical yearly and quarterly goals, and map your key processes. By the end, you’ll walk out with a working playbook you can start using with your team the very next day.
When: Wednesday, November 12, 2025 | 8:30 AM–Noon
Where: Sault Ste. Marie SmartZone
Your Turn | How Are We Doing?
We try to deliver practical programming that helps your business—not pile more stuff on your to-do list.
If you’ve got a few seconds, tell us how we’re doing! It’s completely anonymous, and we promise not to take it personally—unless you say something nice, then we totally will.
Your feedback helps us get even better at helping you.
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