Velocity, a Sterling Heights incubator, accelerator, and coworking space, and Operations School, a Farmington Hills-based entrepreneur coaching service and consultancy, are joining forces to empower 35 small Macomb County businesses though a new program called Momentum.
The incubator program is designed to provide education, personalized coaching, and hands-on technical assistance free of charge. The program is aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, accelerating growth, and fostering long-term business sustainability.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and operational excellence is key to their sustainability,” says Racheal Allen, president and CEO of Operations School.
“Through the Momentum program, we are equipping entrepreneurs with the strategies and practical support needed to streamline processes, maximize efficiency, and foster long-term growth. Our partnership with Velocity ensures that local businesses will receive the guidance they need to thrive.”
Momentum, a four-month program that begins April 1, will feature interactive, bi-weekly workshops combined with in-person discussions to facilitate meaningful engagement. Participants will also receive personalized business coaching to develop a clear and actionable growth roadmap.
The program’s hands-on technical assistance ensures that businesses can implement real-world solutions to overcome operational challenges.
Classes run bi-weekly on Tuesdays from 6-8 p.m. at the Velocity Collaborative Center (633 18 Mile Road) in Sterling Heights. A graduation ceremony will take place on Aug. 19.
In addition, participants will gain access to expert-led workshops covering process optimization, financial management, technology integration and more. One-on-one coaching and tailored technical assistance will address specific business challenges. Through it all, the program fosters a collaborative network of like-minded business owners who can share insights and support each other’s growth.
“Momentum is more than just an educational initiative — it’s a game-changer for small businesses seeking to improve operations, boost revenue, and position themselves for long-term success,” says Paula Macpherson, executive director of Velocity. “By combining education, coaching, and hands-on support, we are strengthening Macomb County’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and creating lasting success stories.”
To qualify, businesses must be for-profit, based in Macomb County, and operating for at least 12 months. Applicants also must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Experienced a significant negative economic impact from COVID-19.
- Located in a 2015 CDFI Investment Tract, a 2020 Qualified Census Tract, or a Rural Michigan County.
- At least 51 percent owned by a woman, minority, veteran, LGBTQ+ individual, person with a disability, or another underserved group as defined by the U.S. Treasury.
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