BATTLE CREEK, MI (WTVB) – For more than three decades, Northern Initiatives has used SBA programs to help underserved entrepreneurs and small businesses access capital.
According to the SBA, Northern Initiatives has issued 615 SBA microloans totaling more than $13 million since 1994.
In 2025, the year for which the organization is being honored, Northern Initiatives made 22 SBA microloans totaling$580,245.
The SBA microloan program provides loans of up to $50,000, with the average loan around$13,000. Across Michigan, the SBA delivered $1.3 billion in financing in 2025.
Cory Langridge saw a need in Coldwater – pet owners driving hours for quality food – and built a solution. With support from Northern Initiatives, including an SBA microloan and a Revolving Loan Fund loan, he opened Jungle Pets in downtown Coldwater, creating two full-time jobs and a go-to destination for pet supplies and community connection.
Since its founding, Northern Initiatives has loaned more than $120 million to Michigan entrepreneurs.
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