Kettering University was awarded the Michigan Small Business Development Center’s (MI-SBDC) Recognition of Excellence - Host/Partner Recognition award in May.

The annual award publicly acknowledges and formally recognizes host or partner institutions for attributes recognized as exemplary by MI-SBDC network personnel, including outstanding service and collaboration within the network and demonstrated excellence benefiting MI-SBDC clients, partners and the community.

In a letter announcing the award, Carol Lupucki, state director of the MI-SBDC, noted a deep appreciation for Kettering’s guidance and support in building a partnership with the MI-SBDC.

Kettering University received a Host/Partner Recognition award from the MI-SBDC.

“The MI-SBDC I-69 Trade Corridor regional office appreciates the warm welcome and strong support provided by host Kettering University; the lasting  relationships built with faculty, students and administration; and the beneficial partnership that helps both parties leverage their contributions to regional economic growth,” she said.

The MI-SBDC enhances Michigan’s economic well-being by providing counseling, training, secondary market research for new ventures, existing small businesses and advanced technology companies. The MI-SBDC headquarters are at Grand Valley State University and the organization has 11 regional offices and more than 20 satellite offices. The SBDC positively impacts the economy by strengthening existing companies, creating new jobs, retaining existing jobs and assisting companies in defining their path to success by offering no-cost assistance in everything from writing a business plan to finding ways to finance a startup to expanding business into international markets.

Kettering has served as a host institution since 2007. Kettering was praised for external efforts to support community outreach and regional programs and services by giving MI-SBDC access to facilities for counseling, training, operations and statewide events. Internally, the University has provided administrative support and integrated MI-SBDC into many University initiatives, including Innovation 2 Entrepreneurship (i2e), the Center for Culminating Undergraduate Experiences, the Kettering Entrepreneur Society and Department of Business courses.