Flint Businesses Resource Toolkit
Executive Summary
Students collaborated with the City of Flint’s Economic Development Department and UM-Flint Office of Economic Development staff to develop a guide for new and existing businesses to understand, act on, and sustainably operate in Flint. Students engaged with key city of Flint and UM-Flint Office of Economic Development staff to understand existing resources and resource gaps for businesses and commercial property owners. A list of resources and appropriate steps were assembled to guide entrepreneurs when locating a business in an existing neighborhood context, along with business-related resources like writing a business plan to access funding. The students created a guide summarizing key points and resources. During a meeting with UM-Flint partners, City of Flint economic development staff, and Flint City Councilwoman Tonya Burn, the students presented their finalized guide. The guide is for new and existing businesses to navigate Flint’s zoning laws, access financing, and operate long-term. It includes resources for each step and contact information for Flint-specific support.