A $200,000 donation from the Consumers Energy Foundation will support the creation of a new microgrant program for small businesses in the City of Kalamazoo. The program, which will focus on women- and people-of-color-owned businesses impacted by COVID-19, will be a partnership between the City of Kalamazoo and the United Way of Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region.

The funds are part of $1.8 million in total donated statewide by the Consumers Energy Foundation to provide a lifeline to small businesses across Michigan. Nine organizations will receive funding with a focus on supporting women- and people-of-color-owned businesses. In all, the Consumers Energy Foundation has given more than $3 million to meet the needs of Michigan residents affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and have been significantly impacted during this unprecedented time,” said Brandon Hofmeister, president of the Consumers Energy Foundation. “Consumers Energy is committed to helping Michigan’s small business community succeed now, more than ever. We are making an investment in our communities, business owners, workers and their families, and a commitment to help power through together.”

The microgrant program will help businesses cover expenses that cannot be met as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program details are currently being finalized and will be announced once completed.

“This microgrant program will help very small businesses that are in danger of losing their entire enterprise as a result of COVID-19,” said Antonio Mitchell, Community Investment Manager for the City of Kalamazoo. “Businesses of all sizes need support, and we are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to the help they need. We’re thankful to the Consumers Energy Foundation for their support.”

The United Way of Kalamazoo and Battle Creek Region will administer the program, expanding a successful relationship that has already provided more than $1 million of support to Kalamazoo’s small business community.

“United Way appreciates the partnership with the City that’s made such a positive impact on small businesses. We are equally grateful for the support of the Consumers Energy Foundation that makes these microgrants possible. We’re excited to bring our grantmaking expertise to do even more to help small businesses succeed beyond this tough time,” said Chris Sargent, President and CEO.