CADILLAC, MI – Baker College and the Michigan Small Business Development Center (Michigan SBDC) announce a new collaborative partnership in Cadillac, Michigan, designed to support small businesses and foster economic growth throughout the Northwest Region. This partnership brings expanded business consulting, training, and support services directly to entrepreneurs and small business owners, with Baker’s Cadillac campus being the hub.
“Baker College is deeply committed to the success of our community, and partnering with the Michigan SBDC as its Northwest Regional host aligns perfectly with our mission,” said Jacqui Spicer, President and CEO of Baker College. “The Michigan SBDC’s unparalleled expertise in small business development, coupled with our strong regional presence and resources, creates a truly dynamic force for good in the entrepreneurial landscape.”
Randy Hill, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Baker College, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the practical benefits of the alliance. “Our ability to provide the Michigan SBDC with the necessary infrastructure and support will significantly enhance its capacity to serve local entrepreneurs,” Hill stated. “This partnership exemplifies a shared vision for robust small business support, ensuring that our region’s innovators have access to the best possible consulting services.”
“The Michigan SBDC is thrilled about this partnership with Baker College,” said J.D. Collins, CEO | Executive Director of the Michigan SBDC. “Baker College’s established presence and commitment to high-quality education make it an ideal host for our services in Cadillac. This collaboration will undoubtedly amplify our efforts to empower small business owners across the state.”
Matthew Welch, Northwest Regional Director for the Michigan SBDC, highlighted the localized impact of the new venture. “Having a strong regional host like Baker College, with its deep roots in the community, is invaluable,” Welch said. “This collaboration allows us to provide even more accessible and comprehensive support to the dedicated entrepreneurs who are the backbone of our local economy. We are confident this partnership will lead to remarkable success stories for small businesses in Northwest Michigan.”
A “grand opening” celebration is planned for September 17, 2025.
Baker College is an independent, private, non-profit institution that grants associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees on six campuses across Michigan and online. Founded in 1911, the institution’s mission is to provide an inclusive, innovative, and transformative educational experience, driven by a student-first philosophy. Learn more at Baker.edu, and follow on X, Meta, and Instagram.
The Michigan Small Business Development Center (Michigan SBDC) provides counseling, training and research services to small businesses across the state. The Michigan SBDC is dedicated to supporting the growth and success of Michigan’s small businesses. Michigan SBDC services are available through the support of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and are funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The Michigan SBDC is hosted on a state level by Grand Valley State University’s Seidman College of Business. Regional hosts include Baker College, Eastern Michigan University, Grand Valley State University, Kettering University, Lansing Community College, Michigan Technological University, Mid Michigan College, Saginaw Valley State University, Washtenaw Community College and Western Michigan University.