Business Development Programs
Fostering entrepreneurship and strengthening community support are essential strategies for creating jobs and driving Michigan’s economic transformation. MSU Extension advances this work by approaching entrepreneurship from both a community and individual perspective, helping local ecosystems thrive while equipping innovators with the tools they need to succeed.
Through MSU Extension and the MSU Product Center—Food • Ag • Bio, start‑up businesses receive guidance in developing and commercializing high‑value, consumer‑responsive products and services. From early‑stage idea development to market readiness, these programs help entrepreneurs launch, grow, and sustain successful businesses that contribute to Michigan’s economic vitality.
New classes added every month! Click here to see what's coming next!
Food Entrepreneur Business Workshops in Spanish: Creating multiple revenue streams for your business
July 7, 2026, 5 p.m., - 6:30 p.m.
Battle Creek Food Reimagined, 50 Jackson St. W. in Battle Creek
Discover new opportunities for growth. Learn how to generate revenue through catering, food trucks, wholesale sales, events, cooking classes and other income streams.
ServSafe Manager Training and Certification Exam - Macomb County - July 14, 2026
July 14, 2026, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
MSU Extension office at the Thompson Community Center - 11370 Hupp Avenue, Room 109, Warren, MI 48089
MSU Extension offers 8-hour ServSafe® training, which is a national certification program. This class is designed for anyone working in the food service industry, including non-profit organizations.
Savvy Tips for Starting a Small Business - (Webinar) - August 11, 2026
August 11, 2026, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Zoom
The class provides financial tools to entrepreneurs and potential small business owners who are considering starting a new business.
Tools for Effective Facilitation Workshop (Formerly Facilitative Leadership)
August 18, 2026 – August 20, 2026
Farm Bureau - 7373 W. Saginaw Hwy., Lansing, MI 48917
The three-day Tools for Effective Facilitation workshop helps build the capacity of groups or organizations to use the collective talents of its members to coordinate actions, strengthen relationships, and enable the group to meet its goals.