Lansing Celebrates Small Business Month with Entrepreneurial Resilience

News Summary

In May, Lansing honors Small Business Month, highlighting the resilience and innovation of local entrepreneurs who have thrived despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. With small businesses making up 99.6% of Michigan’s businesses, local stories of adaptability shine, showcasing successful ventures like World Tour Cheer and Tumble and LuvDog Pet Services. As the community supports these entrepreneurs, the importance of small businesses in driving the local economy becomes evident.

Lansing Celebrates Small Business Month with Entrepreneurial Resilience

May is Small Business Month, and in Lansing, local entrepreneurs are showcasing their resilience and innovation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This month serves as a recognition of the small business owners who have adjusted their operations and thrived against challenging circumstances.

In Michigan, small businesses account for 99.6% of all businesses with fewer than 500 employees, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. These businesses employ nearly 2 million people statewide, making them a critical component of the economy. Lansing’s local entrepreneurs exemplify the creative spirit and determination that keep these businesses thriving.

Success Stories from Okemos and Lansing

One such success story is Coach Benjamin Moritz, who, along with his fellow coach, opened World Tour Cheer and Tumble in Okemos almost a year before the pandemic began. The cheerleading gym focuses on empowering young athletes and enriching their lives through cheerleading. During the pandemic shutdown, Moritz adapted by conducting practices over Zoom, implementing engaging and creative methods to keep his athletes involved with the gym, including unique costumes and activities to maintain their interest.

This adaptability has paid off, as World Tour Cheer and Tumble celebrated significant milestones recently, including winning the JAMfest Super Nationals 2025 and competing effectively at the D2 Summit. As they prepare for their seventh competition season, Moritz and his team reflect on their success, attributing it to hard work, thorough planning, and a consistent belief in their capabilities.

A New Venture in Pet Services

Meanwhile, Jessica Phillips embarked on her entrepreneurial journey by launching LuvDog Pet Services in Lansing last year after spending 13 years as a pet groomer. By leaving her stable 9-to-5 job to establish her own business, she aimed to build a lasting legacy amidst a difficult job market. The services offered by LuvDog Pet Services include dog grooming and training. The flexibility in scheduling has allowed Phillips to enjoy a work-life balance, a key benefit of running her own business.

Phillips has experienced rapid growth within her business, driven by a strong demand for grooming services in the area. To accommodate this growth, she plans to expand to a larger location and hire additional staff, signaling her commitment to furthering her venture in the pet services industry.

The Importance of Small Businesses

The stories of Moritz and Phillips illustrate that even in tough times, small business owners can realize their dreams and contribute to the local economy through perseverance and adaptation. As Small Business Month progresses, the community is encouraged to support local entrepreneurs who embody the spirit of resilience and growth.

Ultimately, the success of small businesses in Lansing not only highlights the dedication of individual owners but also reinforces the importance of these businesses as cornerstones of the economy. The community is invited to celebrate and recognize the vital role that small businesses play during this special month and beyond.

Residents are also urged to keep up with local news and updates to stay informed about the ongoing developments in the small business sector and the vibrant community that Lansing continues to foster.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• WILX: Small Businesses in Mid-Michigan
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• MITech News: Michigan Celebrates Small Business
• Wikipedia: Small Business
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• Google Scholar: Small Business Entrepreneurship
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Small Business
• Google News: Small Business News