Economic Development

Gloria Lara is the Executive Director of the Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance.

LEDA launches weekly conversations on racial inequalities

The Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance has launched a series of weekly Facebook Live events, leading up to the virtual 2020 Summit on Race and Inclusion: Vision & Voices on July 21.

Latest in Economic Development
‘Short-lived hobby’ turns into a Rotary Project to provide PPE to fight pandemic

What began as a little project by Sue Franz to help a friend in need quickly grew into the Rotary Fabric Mask Maker Club. Now, the group needs volunteers and donations to keep up with the demand.

Connor DenBleyker with his new kitten, Elmer.
Cat adoptions are up during quarantine

The Harbor Humane Shelter has seen an increase in first-time adopters since stay-at-home orders went into effect, says Executive Director Jen Self-Aulgur.

Marketing agency continues giving back amid pandemic

Scott Millen shares how he and his wife, Shelly, are keeping the faith and their commitment to nonprofits even as their small business struggles during the global pandemic.  The good news is 2 Fish Company business was approved for a PPP loan and things are looking up. 

Community foundation creates stabilization fund as next step in crisis response

The Community Foundation of Holland/Zeeland Area (CFHZ) has created the Community Stabilization Fund to prioritize investment on financial stability, health, and education to prevent people from slipping into poverty.

Q&A: What businesses need to know ahead of reopening

Kristina Wieghmink, Ottawa County Department of Public Health information officer, answers questions about what businesses need to know to reopen under the “MI Safe Start Plan."

Ebrahim Mohammad Eshaq sews masks.
‘Mask Master’ finds home, new purpose in U.S. with refugee resettlement program

Ebrahim Mohammad Eshaq is putting his tailoring skills to work making face masks for Zeeland-based Ventura Manufacturing. As the Afghani refugee and his family settle in the U.S. with the help of Bethany Christian Services, he is grateful for the opportunity to help. 

‘Heal the Zeel’ campaign rallies community support

The city of Zeeland’s “Feel the Zeel” tagline has temporarily switched to “Heal the Zeel” during the pandemic. Downtown businesses such as Out of the Box and Tripelroot say they appreciate the campaign's unifying message. 

With shops and restaurants closed, the sidewalks in downtown Holland lack the usual hustle and bustle of a springtime Saturday.
Michigan West Coast Chamber foundation announces downtown relief fund

A newly created relief fund will offer grants of up to $10,000 to businesses in downtown Holland and Zeeland struggling in the wake of the COVID-19 economic crisis. The deadline to apply is May 18. 

Life of giving enriches everyone

Community volunteer Ed Amaya shares how the pandemic has given him more opportunities to find the places where he can make a difference.

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