PFE Blog

May 28, 2024

People Behind the Business: Asian American Pacific Islander Month

Happy Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month! Supporting local businesses is creating human scale economies that celebrate our unique identities and attributes. Did you know that “there are more than two million Asian-owned businesses, making…
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April 24, 2024

Local First Workshop Recap: Civic Engagement 101

Decisions are made whether you engage or not. Find a seat at the table.  Last month, we were thrilled to partner with the Michigan League for Public Policy to bring our members the first Local…
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April 22, 2024

Ask Your Local Credit Union!

Happy Move Your Money month! Here at People First Economy, we know that where you hold your accounts has a BIG impact. We also know that moving your money can feel daunting, but it doesn't…
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April 8, 2024

Keep the change (when you move your money)!

Keep the Change  Did you know that you can put the dollars you deposit to work!?    When you choose to bank locally your dollars are kept close to home. Unlike big banks, local financial…
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March 7, 2024

Michigan’s Women-Led B Corps

March is B Corp Month and Women’s History Month!   Certified B Corporations™ (B Corps™) are for-profit companies that use the power of business to build a more inclusive and sustainable economy. They meet the highest…
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February 28, 2024

People Behind the Business: Black History Month Feature

Why should you choose black owned businesses? People First Economy believes that by supporting black owned businesses, you are “building a more inclusive economy that leads to more community wealth. One report from McKinsey & Company noted that…
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February 6, 2024

Michigan Business Development Group Secures Government Support for Local Entrepreneurs

People First Economy Partners with the Center for Community Based Enterprise, Detroit Community Wealth Fund, and Michigan Center for Employee Ownership to Support Small Businesses to Access Funding Business development…
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January 22, 2024

People First Economy Welcomes Carlos Martinez as New President

Transition Marks New Era for Sustainable Economic Development in Michigan People First Economy, a leading organization in fostering sustainable economic growth in Michigan, is excited to announce the appointment of Carlos Martinez as its new…
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November 15, 2023

10 Years of City Building, Prepping for a World of Winter and Shopping Small

Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) works with partners Downtown and throughout the community to create a vibrant and welcoming neighborhood for everyone to enjoy. This work is constant and ever evolving, and we’ve been at…
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November 13, 2023

Your Roadmap to Meaningful Gift Giving

What is the best gift you've ever been given? I'll bet it has a fun backstory! Sitting here, I've caught a glimpse of my favorite art print out of the corner of my eye and…
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