St. Clair County small businesses can apply for coaching and up to $3,500 in support services

St. Clair County small-business owners looking to strengthen their operations or plan for growth can apply for the 2027 Eastern Michigan Small Business Cohort through Nov. 23.

The program will select up to 50 existing businesses across a seven-county region. Participants will receive personalized coaching, mentoring and up to $3,500 in professional support services to help address business needs.

According to the Economic Development Alliance of St. Clair County, the program is open to existing small businesses with revenue-generating operations in St. Clair, Genesee, Shiawassee, Lapeer, Tuscola, Huron and Sanilac counties.

The cohort is designed to help owners strengthen operations, pursue growth and build long-term sustainability through business advising, technical assistance and access to professional services.

Selected businesses will be announced in mid-December, and the program is scheduled to begin Jan. 5, 2027.

To apply, owners should visit the Eastern Michigan Small Business Network website and complete the Client Intake Form. When asked whether they are interested in joining the 2027 Cohort Program, applicants should select “Yes, I’d like to apply.” A separate cohort application will be emailed within one business day.

The initiative is supported by an $880,000 Small Business Support Hubs grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The Port Huron SmartZone and its affiliated Propeller business incubator serve as the regional hub, with programming delivered through the Eastern Michigan Small Business Network.

Business owners can find the full announcement and application instructions on EDA’s website or call 810-982-9511 for more information.