Micro-Enterprise

Micro EnterpriseThe Micro-Enterprise program celebrates abilities and innovation through business development by creating support networks which empower individuals with developmental disabilities to attain their highest level of independence and generate income as integral members of their communities.

Micro-Enterprise is a community-wide network of individuals interested in small business ownership. The Micro-Enterprise program provides business development services through one-on-one business coaching and support to help each individual attain his or her highest potential.


The Process

Our development process is based on person-centered planning and small business development principles.  Balancing the two facilitates the movement of both the business and the business owner toward independence in the community.  At Hope Network, we respect and value each individual for his or her unique abilities.  Person-centered planning is instrumental in helping individuals compare their abilities and career goals, and discover their strengths and talents.

Our staff work with each business owner on a one-on-one basis to establish an individualized plan for the business, and work as a team so personal goals can be proudly met.

We provide assistance to small business owners in the following areas:

  • Market research
  • Brand identity and development
  • Writing business plans
  • Accessing micro-loans
  • Marketing and sales
  • Banking
  • Leadership skills


Systems of Support

The Micro-Enterprise program also thrives on support from individuals or groups in the community. A system of support is integral to the sustainability of small businesses.

  • Macro Networks of support include community partnerships; business expertise in universities and small businesses.
  • Micro Networks of support are built around each small business; assisting the business owner in every aspect of running a business.


We also support aspiring entrepreneurs from these partnering agencies: Thresholds Inc., Goodwill Industries, Spectrum Community Services, and MOKA Corporation.

The Micro-Enterprise program is made possible by funding and guidance through coordination and micro-loans from Network 180.


To get involved with the Micro-Enterprise program, please contact:

Ron Irvine, Micro-Enterprise Specialist
616.726.1976  

Visit the statewide Micro-Enterprise website!


Feel free to Ask Jenny any questions you may have about our programs or services.

 

   


Center for Autism Grand Rounds --- 2012 Lunch Lecture Series
5/9/2012

Friday, June 1st
Applied Behavior Analysis for Autism Spectrum Disorders
Elyse Wiseman, BCBA, Hope Network

12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Hope Network Education Center

Grand Rounds is a new series of professional lunchtime lectures covering a variety of topics relating to autism spectrum disorders and other neurodevelopmental conditions, including ABA, Speech and Language Pathology, and supporting children and adults with autism. Lectures are free of charge and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to bring their lunch. Following each lecture, there will be an opportunity for questions and answers.


All lectures are from 12:00-1:00 p.m. at the Hope Network Education Center, 775 36th Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI.
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Michigan Partners for Freedom | Free Self-Determination Seminar
5/1/2012
If you have a disability and want to get more control of your life, your support, and your services, then join the Michigan Partners for Freedom on May 9, 2012 from 9:30 - 2:30 pm at Hope Network Education Center in Grand Rapids. Lunch included!
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Hope Network strives to bridge gap in services to people with mental illness
4/25/2012
WGVU  |  Hope Network is a non-profit Christian organization well known in Michigan for providing a broad continuum of care in the treatment of brain and spinal cord injuries, developmental disabilities, and mental illness. WGVU’s Caroline MacGregor reports on the organization’s efforts to streamline services and address the alarming mortality rate among people with mental health disabilities.