GRABB Local

June GRABB Breakfast
2025-06-21 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Detroit) | AEBetancourt, 408 Broadway Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49504, United States
Join us for the next GRABB Breakfast as we explore the theme “Wine, Spirits & Cultural Hubs.” This engaging morning event will feature dynamic “Chalk Talk” presentations from two trailblazing entrepreneurs:

Daniel May, Founder of Dabney & Co Cocktail Bar, and

Nicole Triplett, Founder of The Roché Collection and Twine Urban Winery.

These distinguished speakers will share their journeys in building spaces that not only serve great drinks but also foster culture and community.
Whether you’re a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or community member, come connect, learn, and be inspired.
GRABB Breakfast is a morning Chalk Talk and Development series for dreamers, makers, innovators, and current/aspiring business owners. This series not only brings together our city’s Black talent but also creates an open space to connect and build relationships. GRABB Breakfast are intended to bring together Entrepreneurs & Intrapreneurs who are driven by passion, purpose and progress, confident that they will inspire one another, and inspire change in neighborhoods, communities and cities.

District 2012 Back Alley Market Days
2025-06-14 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Detroit) | Back Alley Market, 817 Merritt St SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49507, United States
District 2012 Back Alley Market, is a seasonal outdoor marketplace celebrating emerging entrepreneurs from our community. From artisanal candles and soap to fresh baked goods and handmade wares, every event will feature an exciting and diverse range of local vendors. Another goal is to provide start-up food entrepreneurs with an entry point into the industry by providing a venue where vendors and food truck operators can serve customers. Our overall goal is layered, we want to not only let our venue grow successfully but provide a place where entrepreneurs can grow and mature their products.
Public Marketplaces can become the heart and soul of a community, and our Back Alley Market has the potential to become just that for Seymour Square neighborhood and business district. By creating this centerpiece for community life, it will bring together residents and different groups, exposing them to distinct interaction, renewing community spirit, and redeveloping public places by producing an open marketplace that promotes interaction and encourages social and economic activity for all ages and abilities.

May GRABB & Go
2025-05-13 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Detroit) | Start Garden, 2 Fulton St W #200, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join us for our May GRABB & Go Workshop focused on Event Planning & Hosting in Public Spaces, led by the City of Grand Rapids and Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI).
Evette Pittman, Special Events Manager, City of Grand Rapids
Kim Van Driel, Director of Public Space Management, Downtown GR Inc
This hands-on workshop is designed for entrepreneurs, creatives, and community builders interested in activating public spaces through events. Attendees will gain valuable insight into the process of hosting events in parks, streets, and other public areas, including the necessary permits, planning tools, and available resources.
Our partners from the City and DGRI will share financial support opportunities and resources available to help bring your vision to life. Whether you’re planning a cultural celebration, pop-up market, or block party, this session will equip you with the knowledge to execute it successfully.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to bring your event ideas into the heart of the city!

April GRABB Connects
2025-04-24 17:00 - 19:30 (America/Detroit) | Robinson’s Popcorn, 3700 Rivertown PKWY, Grandville, 49418, United States
Join us for an evening of networking, Popcorn and refreshments at Robinson’s Popcorn (Inside Rivertown Mall)! This is your chance to expand you network, build relationships, in a relaxed, welcoming environment all while supporting a local business.
GRABB Connects are opportunities for current and future entrepreneurs to gather together for delicious appetizers, drinks, and music while exchanging social capital and hearing what’s happening with GRABB. GRABB Connects also features Content Corners. Content Corners are designated spaces at GRABB Connects that have business professionals and experts in various Business Disciplines where attending entrepreneurs can engage with in regards to their business and the products/services provided by Content Corner Partners.

March GRABB Breakfast
2025-03-21 08:00 - 09:30 (America/Detroit) | West Michigan Center for Arts & Technology (WMCAT), 614 First St NW, Suite 300, Grand Rapids, MI, 49504, United States
🚀 GRABB Breakfast: New Fund, New Money, New Access! 💼✨

Join us for an inspiring morning of insight and opportunity at the GRABB Breakfast on March 21st, 8:00-9:30 AM at the West Michigan Center for Arts & Technology in Grand Rapids! 🌟 GRABB Breakfasts is a morning Chalk Talk and Development series for dreamers, makers, innovators, and current/aspiring business owners. This series not only brings together our city’s Black talent but also creates an open space to connect and build relationships. GRABB Breakfasts are intended to bring together Entrepreneurs & Intrapreneurs who are driven by passion, purpose and progress, confident that they will inspire one another, and inspire change in neighborhoods, communities and cities.
🎤 Featuring Chalk Talk Speakers:
🔥 Dwayne Powell Jr. – A powerhouse in economic empowerment, community development, and financial literacy, with a legacy of launching game-changing business initiatives across Michigan and Indiana.
🔥 Eric B. Cunningham – A leader in housing equity, civic engagement, and economic development, driving impactful policies and programs that uplift underserved communities.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain knowledge, network, and access resources to fuel your business success! Tickets: $15 🎟️
📍 Location: 614 First St NW STE 300, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

This is a great opportunity to meet with business folks across various industries and sectors who are willing to share and learn from one another. Each event includes a 30 minute talk w/Q & A plus breakfast! Anyone can attend. Space limited!
#GRABBBreakfast #BlackBusinesses #Entrepreneurship #CommunityWealth #Networking #SmallBizSuccess #EconomicEmpowerment #MinorityBusiness #ThriveTogether

February GRABB & Go
2025-02-18 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Detroit) | Start Garden, 2 Fulton St W #200, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Kickstart the new year by joining us for our first GRABB & Go of 2025: “Financially Fit & Focused for the New Year” designed to help small business owners and entrepreneurs set strong financial foundations and achieve their financial goals in 2025.
Presentation by: Melisha Reid Roberts, CEO of Reid Financial Services & Solutions
GRABB & Go’s are general meetings and workshops for Black entrepreneurs and business owners to provide them with current information and knowledge. These meetings cover a range of topics from entrepreneurial leaders about growing and sustaining their businesses. Through these meeting series, entrepreneurs will receive information on best practices, resources and strategies in everything from legal, finances, product development, sales, marketing, capital raising. These workshops provide additional opportunities to learn and share what you know with your peers.

January GRABB Connects
2025-01-23 17:00 - 19:30 (America/Detroit) | Forty Acres Soul Kitchen, 1059 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49506, United States
Join us for GRABB Connects—a dynamic evening of networking, collaboration, and community-building! This month, we’re bringing the energy to Forty Acres Soul Kitchen, a vibrant space that embodies culture, entrepreneurship, and great conversation.
Whether you’re a seasoned business owner, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a professional looking to make valuable connections, GRABB Connects offers a welcoming environment to engage with Grand Rapids’ most innovative Black business leaders and professionals.
Come ready to share your story, exchange ideas, and grow your network—while enjoying the amazing atmosphere and hospitality of Forty Acres.
📅 When: January 23rd
📍 Where: Forty Acres Soul Kitchen, 1059 Wealthy St SE Grand Rapids, 49506
⏰ Time: 5:00pm – 7:30pm
Let’s build connections that empower and strengthen our community. We can’t wait to see you there!
GRABB Connects are opportunities for current and future entrepreneurs to gather together for delicious appetizers, drinks, and music while exchanging social capital and hearing what’s happening with GRABB. GRABB Connects also features Content Corners. Content Corners are designated spaces at GRABB Connects that have business professionals and experts in various Business Disciplines where attending entrepreneurs can engage with in regards to their business and the products/services provided by Content Corner Partners.

GRABB Breakfast: Holiday Brunch Edition
2024-12-21 10:00 - 13:00 (America/Detroit) | The 1530, 1530 Madison Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49507
🎄 GRABB Breakfast: Holiday Brunch Edition 🎄
It’s the season to jingle and mingle! Celebrate the holidays with the Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses team and community at our Holiday Brunch Edition.
Join us for:
✨ Networking: Connect with Black entrepreneurs and Movers & Shakers in the community in a warm, celebratory atmosphere.
🎶 Live Music: The sounds provided by DJ Oso, setting the perfect holiday brunch vibes.
🍳 Catered Brunch: Enjoy a delicious, chef-prepared brunch menu.
🍾 Mimosa Bar: Sip on seasonal mimosas while sharing holiday cheer.
👚 Holiday Sweater Competition: Rock your best festive sweater for a chance to win a cash prize!
Let’s come together to celebrate the season, build connections, and spread joy. Don’t miss this unforgettable holiday brunch!
🎁 Purchase Tickets Now https://grabblocal.com/event/december-grabb-breakfast/
#TheShift
*Enter on the Cottage Grove St Side of The 1530 Building

2024 GRABB Awards & Gala
2024-11-15 18:30 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 E Beltline Ave, Michigan, 49525
The evening of November 15th from 6:30pm-9:00pm. We are excited to present our Annual GRABB Gala & Awards Reception. The GRABB Gala & Awards is a one-of-a-kind, event designed to recognize those contributing to the forward economic progress of our community and advance the work of Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses which aims to foster an economy that supports the revitalization of the Black community and expand opportunities for Black Businesses in the Greater Grand Rapids area by creating economic equity.
The GRABB Awards were created to recognize, affirm and celebrate Black businesses, individuals and community organizations that work hard to build up and make a difference in our community.
We are also celebrating another year of impact and transformation, followed by recognizing this year’s award recipients and our Marcus Garvey Legacy Honoree. We will share what you, as critical community members and supporters, can do to ensure #TheShift continues!

The theme of the event this year is American Dreamin’!

October GRABB Connects
2024-10-16 17:00 - 19:30 (America/Detroit) | Interior Artistry x Empire Decor, 730 Leonard St NW, Suite 102, Grand Rapids, 49504, United States
Connects & Karaoke!!

Who’s Ready To Sing some 90’s R&B and more?! Our space host for this month’s networking event is Interior Artistry and part of the event we will be doing a Karaoke Happy Hour a part of this GRABB Connects. Don’t miss networking, food, drinks & Karaoke! Join us Wednesday October 16th for our GRABB Connects.
Location: Interior Artistry
Address: 730 Leonard St NW Suite 102, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Time: 5:00pm-7:30pm
Karaoke: Starts at 6pm
GRABB Connects are opportunities for current and future entrepreneurs to gather together for delicious appetizers, drinks, and music while exchanging social capital and hearing what’s happening with GRABB. GRABB Connects also features Content Corners. Content Corners are designated spaces at GRABB Connects that have business professionals and experts in various Business Disciplines where attending entrepreneurs can engage with in regards to their business and the products/services provided by Content Corner Partners.

GRABB MOBB The Candied Yam
2024-10-10 11:30 - 19:30 (America/Detroit) | MI
We’re Mobbin’ to @thecandiedyamgr! In response to the unfortunate vandalism that occurred at this Black owned business we are activing the greater community to financially support this business be dining in, taking out or placing a catering order.
Come out, meet up and enjoy their Southern cuisine, lemonade and desserts. They conveniently have two locations one in Kentwood, MI & SE Grand Rapids!
A GRABB MOBB is an intentional and focused effort to support black-owned businesses in the Greater Grand Rapids Area on a specific day. It’s basically a financial flash-mob.

September GRABB Breakfast
2024-09-28 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Detroit) | Genesis Suites, 1333 Alger St SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49507, United States
We are excited to announce our next GRABB Breakfast. GRABB Breakfasts is a morning Chalk Talk and Development series for dreamers, makers, innovators, and current/aspiring business owners.
This series not only brings together our city’s Black talent but also creates an open space to connect and build relationships. GRABB Breakfasts are intended to bring together Entrepreneurs & Intrapreneurs who are driven by passion, purpose and progress, confident that they will inspire one another, and inspire change in neighborhoods, communities and cities. Every event includes networking time before and after a Chalk Talk.
Chalk Talk Presenter: Senita Lenear
This is a great opportunity to meet with business folks across various industries and sectors who are willing to share and learn from one another. Each event includes a 30 minute talk w/Q & A plus breakfast! Anyone can attend. Space limited!

August 5x5 Night Partnered w/ GRABB
2024-08-27 05:00 - 19:00 (America/Detroit) | Start Garden, 2 Fulton St W #200, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
GRABB & Start Garden are partnering to “Celebrate the Culture & Hustle of Black Entrepreneurs” for this month’s 5×5 night. Submissions for 5×5 night are open now through August 19th. 5×5 night provides an opportunity to secure $5,000 with a 5 minute business pitch.

August GRABB & Go
2024-08-20 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Detroit) | Start Garden, 2 Fulton St W #200, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join us on August 20th for an impactful GRABB & Go event, where Black entrepreneurs will receive invaluable insights from two key organizations. Huntington Bank will present their Lift Local Business Loan Program, a powerful initiative focused on supporting the growth of locally owned businesses. Additionally, the Urban League of West MI will introduce their newly formed CDFI, designed to enhance capital access within our community. This event is an excellent opportunity to connect with experienced leaders and gain practical tools to help grow and sustain your business.
Topic: Where The Money Resides: Accessing Traditional and Non-Traditional Capital
Presentations By:
LaRon Henderson, Huntington Bank
Eric Brown, Urban League of West MI
What You’ll Gain:
Expert Advice: Learn from LaRon Henderson and Eric Brown about the capital access programs they have for small businesses.
Hands-on Help: Get personalized assistance and practical tips from experienced entrepreneurs.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and share your experiences.
Don’t miss this chance to gain insights and tools to grow and sustain your business!

2024 GRABB Sankofa Mixer & Business Marketplace
2024-07-25 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Halifax) | The Venue @ The Candied Yam, 932 Division Ave S, Grand Rapids, MI, 49507, United States
We are excited to announce this year’s GRABB Sankofa MIxer & Pop-up Market!
Sankofa means “one must return to the past in order to move forward.” Thus the Akan belief that the past serves as a guide for planning the future. To the Akan it is this wisdom in learning from the past which ensures a strong future.
Our Sankofa MIxer & Pop-up Market celebrates existing and emerging Black entrepreneurs in West Michigan. From artisan candles and soap, to fresh baked goods and handmade ware.
Shop our Pop-up Market and support your neighborhood business economy in Grand Rapids!
Attendees will also have the opportunity learn about GRABB’s Past (What we have done), Present (What we are currently doing) and Future (What we have in the works).
Make a Donation to our District 2012 Capital Campaign https://grabblocal.com/district-2012/
This event is FREE & open to the public.

GRABB MOBB Last Mile Cafe
2024-06-19 07:00 - 16:00 (America/Detroit) | Last Mile Cafe, 1006 Hall St SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49507, United States
What happens when conscious consumers crowd and support black-owned businesses?
How would local black-owned businesses benefit from that exposure? We’re going to answer these questions with the launch of GRABB MOBBs!
A GRABB MOBB is an intentional and focused effort to support black-owned businesses in the Greater Grand Rapids Area on a specific day. It’s basically a financial flashmob.
GRABB MOBB’s are a new way to experience and be exposed to black-owned businesses!
We will be kicking off our first GRABB MOBB of the 2024 at Last Mile Cafe. Come out, meet up and enjoy a delicious coffee, expresso, tea, summer lemonade and more.
Meet the owners and learn more about their business.
Learn more about Last Mile Cafe: https://www.lastmile.cafe/
This event is FREE & Open to the public!

GRABB Breakfast Series: Growing Wealth & Health N The Hood
2024-06-15 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Detroit) | AEBetancourt, 408 Broadway Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49504, United States
We are excited to announce our next GRABB Breakfast. GRABB Breakfasts is a morning Chalk Talk and Development series for dreamers, makers, innovators, and current/aspiring business owners.
This series not only brings together our city’s Black talent but also creates an open space to connect and build relationships. GRABB Breakfasts are intended to bring together Entrepreneurs & Intrapreneurs who are driven by passion, purpose and progress, confident that they will inspire one another, and inspire change in neighborhoods, communities and cities. Every event includes networking time before and after a Chalk Talk.
Chalk Talk Presenter: Raphael Wright Founder of Neighborhood Grocery
This is a great opportunity to meet with business folks across various industries and sectors who are willing to share and learn from one another. Each event includes a 30 minute talk w/Q & A plus breakfast! Anyone can attend. Space limited!

May GRABB & Go: Doing Business with the Public
2024-05-30 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Detroit) | Start Garden, 2 Fulton St W #200, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join us for a GRABB & Go workshop on “Doing Business with the Public,” featuring presentations from Teresa Payne, Chief Inclusion Officer at Kent County, and Patti Caudill, Diversity and Inclusion Manager at the City of Grand Rapids. This workshop is part of GRABB’s business development series designed to provide Black entrepreneurs with valuable information and hands-on help from experienced leaders.
What You’ll Gain:

Expert Advice: Learn from Teresa Payne and Patti Caudill on how to effectively engage with public sector entities.
Hands-on Help: Get personalized assistance and practical tips from experienced entrepreneurs.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and share your experiences.

Don’t miss this chance to gain insights and tools to grow and sustain your business!
GRABB & Go’s are designed to provide Black entrepreneurs information and Hands-on help from experienced and knowledgeable entrepreneurial leaders about growing and sustaining their businesses. Through GRABB’s business development series, entrepreneurs will receive best practices and strategies on everything from product development to sales and marketing to fundraising. Experienced Entrepreneur Talks and workshops provide additional opportunities to learn and share what you know.

April GRABB Connects
2024-04-18 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Detroit) | Della Soul Records, 1220 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49507, United States
Join us Thursday April 18th for our GRABB Connects hosted at Della Soul Records! Come check out the First Black woman-owned record store in the State of Michigan. Della Soul Records opened November 4th, 2023.
Join us for networking, food and drinks!!
Location: Della Soul Records
Address: 1220 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Time: 5:00pm-7:00pm
This Month’s Content Corner Partner is West MI SBDC (Small Business Development Center)
GRABB Connects are opportunities for current and future entrepreneurs to gather together for delicious appetizers, drinks, and music while exchanging social capital and hearing what’s happening with GRABB. GRABB Connects also features Content Corners. Content Corners are designated spaces at GRABB Connects that have business professionals and experts in various Business Disciplines where attending entrepreneurs can engage with in regards to their business and the products/services provided by Content Corner Partners.

GRABB Breakfast Series: Scaling You
2024-03-08 08:00 - 09:30 (America/Detroit) | Women’s Resource Center, 816 Madison Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49507, United States
We are excited to announce our next GRABB Breakfast. GRABB Breakfasts is a morning Chalk Talk and Development series for dreamers, makers, innovators, and current/aspiring business owners.
This series not only brings together our city’s Black talent but also creates an open space to connect and build relationships. GRABB Breakfasts are intended to bring together Entrepreneurs & Intrapreneurs who are driven by passion, purpose and progress, confident that they will inspire one another, and inspire change in neighborhoods, communities and cities. Every event includes networking time before and after a Chalk Talk.
Chalk Talk Presenter: Shannon Cohen Founder and CEO of Shannon Cohen, Inc.
Shannon Cohen is the Founder and CEO of Shannon Cohen, Inc. a company that creates products, spaces, and experiences that invest in the emotional well-being of people who lead, love, and serve in transformational ways. Her company has a licensing agreement with American Greetings and her products have been featured at Target, Meijer, and West Elm.
Shannon is the Founder of the global Rockstar Woman™ Movement, serving thousands of women throughout the U.S and Canada.
Shannon has been named one of the 200 Most Powerful Business Leaders in West Michigan and recognized as one of the 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan by the Grand Rapids Business Journal. Shannon is an alumnus of the prestigious W.K. Kellogg Foundation Community Leadership Network Fellowship, 2023 recipient of the prestigious Distinguished Alumni Award from her alma mater, Grand Valley State University, and the 1st alumnus in the University’s history to serve as commencement keynote speaker. This March, Shannon will receive the WMCAT Award for “Imagination” award at the 2024 iBall. Shannon is the proud mom of a 4th grader, and entering 15 years of “I do” with the love of her life!
This is a great opportunity to meet with business folks across various industries and sectors who are willing to share and learn from one another. Each event include a 30 minute talk w/Q & A plus breakfast! Anyone can attend. Space limited!

Click to Purchase Tickets

5x5 Night Hosted By GRABB
2024-02-27 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Detroit) | Start Garden, 2 Fulton St W #200, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
GRABB & Start Garden are partnering to “Celebrate the Culture & Hustle of Black Entrepreneurs” for this month’s 5×5 night. Submissions for 5×5 night are open now through February 19th. 5×5 night provides an opportunity to secure $5,000 with a 5 minute business pitch.

February GRABB & Go
2024-02-20 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Detroit) | Start Garden, 2 Fulton St W #200, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Topic: Essential Financial Documents & What They Tell You About Your Business
With: Mariel Harmon
Harmon Management Services
GRABB & Go’s are designed to provide Black entrepreneurs information and Hands-on help from experienced and knowledgeable entrepreneurial leaders about growing and sustaining their businesses. Through GRABB’s business development series, entrepreneurs will receive best practices and strategies on everything from product development to sales and marketing to fundraising. Experienced Entrepreneur Talks and workshops provide additional opportunities to learn and share what you know.

January GRABB Connects
2024-01-25 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Detroit) | Daisie’s Place, 15 Ionia Ave SW #140, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Networking, Food and Drinks!
GRABB Connects are opportunities for current and future entrepreneurs to gather together for delicious appetizers, drinks, and music while exchanging social capital and hearing what’s happening with GRABB. GRABB Connects also features Content Corners. Content Corners are designated spaces at GRABB Connects that have business professionals and experts in various Business Disciplines where attending entrepreneurs can engage with in regards to their business and the products/services provided by Content Corner Partners.

2023 GRABB Gala & Awards
2023-11-17 18:30 - 21:00 (America/Halifax) | Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 E Beltline Ave, Michigan, 49525
The evening of November 17th from 6:30pm-9:00pm. We are excited to present our Annual GRABB Gala & Awards Reception at Frederik Meijer Gardens.

The GRABB Awards Reception is a one-of-a-kind, event designed to recognize those contributing to the forward progress of our community and advance the work of Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses.

The GRABB Awards were created to recognize, affirm and celebrate Black businesses, individuals and community organizations that work hard to build up and make a difference in our community.

October GRABB & Go
2023-10-10 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Halifax) | The Bridge/Doug Meijer Medical Innovation Building, 109 Michigan St NW, 4th Floor, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
GRABB & Go’s are general meetings with a learning component for Black entrepreneurs and business owners to provide them with current information and business knowledge. GRABB & Go provides Black entrepreneurs information and hands-on help from experienced and knowledgeable entrepreneurs, support organizations and professional service leaders about growing and sustaining their businesses. Through these meetings entrepreneurs will receive information on best practices, resources and strategies in everything from legal, finances, product development, sales, marketing, capital raising. These workshops provide additional opportunities to learn and share what you know with your peers.
Monthly Topic: Product Development
Featured Presenters:
Kendra Wills – MSU Product Center Innovation Counselor at MSU Product Development Center
Jamie Rahrig – Michigan Good Food Fund Specialist, Innovation Counselor at MSU Product Development Center

GRABB Breakfast Series: Deal Flow
2023-09-22 08:00 - 09:30 (America/Halifax) | Start Garden, 2 Fulton St W #200, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
We are excited to announce our next GRABB Breakfast. GRABB Breakfasts is a morning Chalk Talk and Development series for dreamers, makers, innovators, and current/aspiring business owners.
This series not only brings together our city’s Black talent but also creates an open space to connect and build relationships. GRABB Breakfasts are intended to bring together Entrepreneurs & Intrapreneurs who are driven by passion, purpose and progress, confident that they will inspire one another, and inspire change in neighborhoods, communities and cities. Every event includes networking time before and after a Chalk Talk.
Chalk Talk Presenter: Jonathan Jelks
Jonathan Jelks, a millennial serial entrepreneur from southeast Grand Rapids, Michigan, co-founded and partners in a diverse portfolio spanning hospitality to tech, including ventures like Sip Coffee & Cocktails, The Botanical Co. Dispensary, Motu Lakeshore Wine Bar, Prohibition Bar & Cocktail Lounge, Fields Cannary, Motu Viget Spirits, GR USA Apparel Company, and Radi8er streaming platform. He’s also a co-founder of The Midwest Tech Project, aimed at diversifying West Michigan’s tech talent pipeline. Recently, he’s ventured into film as an executive producer for the upcoming documentary ‘I Too Sing America: Langston Hughes Unfurled,’ highlighting the great Harlem Renaissance poet & playwright. Jonathan believes entrepreneurship, when done right, empowers, enlightens, and builds communities.
This is a great opportunity to meet with business folks across various industries and sectors who are willing to share and learn from one another. Each event include a 30 minute talk w/Q & A plus breakfast! Everyone is invited to attend. Space limited!
Purchase Tickets Here https://grabbbreakfastsept23.eventbrite.com

August GRABB Connects
2023-08-24 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Halifax) | GRNoir Wine & Jazz, 35 Division Ave S, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join us for the GRABB Connects Meeting of 2023 for networking, food and drinks!!
GRABB Connects are opportunities for current and future entrepreneurs to gather together for delicious appetizers, drinks, and music while exchanging social capital and hearing what’s happening with GRABB. GRABB Connects also features Content Corners. Content Corners are designated spaces at GRABB Connects that have business professionals and experts in various Business Disciplines where attending entrepreneurs can engage with in regards to their business and the products/services provided by Content Corner Partners.

GRABB Breakfast Series: Power of Imagination
2023-07-28 08:00 - 09:30 (America/Halifax) | Carbon Stories, 1202 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49504
Purchase Tickets https://grabbbreakfastjuly23.eventbrite.com
We are excited to announce our next GRABB Breakfast. GRABB Breakfasts is a morning Chalk Talk and Development series for dreamers, makers, innovators, and current/aspiring business owners. This series not only brings together our city’s Black talent but also creates an open space to connect and build relationships.
The GRABB Breakfasts are events to bring together Entrepreneurs & Intrapreneurs that are driven by passion, purpose, and progress. Our Chalk Talk Presenters hope to inspire their audience and inspire change in neighborhoods, communities, and cities. Every event includes networking time before and after the Chalk Talk Presenter. The GRABB Breakfasts is an excellent opportunity to meet with business people across various industries and sectors who are willing to share and learn from one another.
This upcoming event is $15 which includes a 30-minute talk w/Q & A plus breakfast! Anyone can attend. Just register beforehand to reserve your spot. Space limited!

Our Chalk Talk Presenter: Michael Hyacinthe CEO of Wimage and Co-Founder of Has Heart.
Michael Hyacinthe is an 8-year United States Navy Veteran who served as a U.S. Navy Seabee. His military service took him around the world to Iceland, Guam, Europe and the Middle East. Michael is a serial entrepreneur focusing on social enterprises. He is the co-founder and chairman of [Has Heart] an organization that provides creative outlets for veterans. He is also the CEO and founder of Wimage or Words to Images. Wimage is a children’s media company that produces educational and entertainment content to help kids learn, create and explore. Through Wimage Michael is the Executive producer of a children’s television show called Wimee’s Words featuring their IP Wimee the Robot. Wimee’s Words is currently seen on PBS stations in 24 different markets and other streaming platforms. Their Goal is to develop the next sesame street for digital age learners that inspires kids to be creators and storytellers.
His most recent accomplishment was a three-book deal by book giant HarperCollins through their ZonderKidz Imprint. Their first book Wimee Creates with Vehicle and Colors launches July 18th but can be preordered now where wherever fine books are sold.
Purchase Tickets https://grabbbreakfastjuly23.eventbrite.com

Sankofa Mixer "10 Year Launch Celebration"
2023-07-27 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Halifax) | The 1530, 1530 Madison Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49507
10 Years of #TheShift!!! Can you believe GRABB has been creating economic and business opportunities for Black entrepreneurs and business owners for 10 years in West MI?

We are excited to announce this year’s GRABB Sankofa MIxer & Pop-up Market!
Sankofa means “one must return to the past in order to move forward.” Thus the Akan belief that the past serves as a guide for planning the future. To the Akan it is this wisdom in learning from the past which ensures a strong future.
Our Sankofa MIxer & Pop-up Market celebrates existing and emerging Black entrepreneurs in West Michigan. From artisan candles and soap, to fresh baked goods and handmade ware.
Shop our Pop-up Market and support your neighborhood business economy in Grand Rapids!
Attendees will also have the opportunity learn about GRABB’s Past (What we have done), Present (What we are currently doing) and Future (What we have in the works).
Make a Donation to our District 2012 Capital Campaign https://grabblocal.com/district-2012/
This event is FREE & open to the public.

June GRABB Connects
2023-06-15 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Halifax) | Muse SE, 501 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join us for networking, food and drinks!!
GRABB Connects are opportunities for current and future entrepreneurs to gather together for delicious appetizers, drinks, and music while exchanging social capital and hearing what’s happening with GRABB. GRABB Connects also features Content Corners. Content Corners are designated spaces at GRABB Connects that have business professionals and experts in various Business Disciplines where attending entrepreneurs can engage with in regards to their business and the products/services provided by Content Corner Partners.
