In today’s fast-paced world, the success of small businesses is crucial for a thriving economy. In a recent episode of Symplicity Conversations, Catherine Ripley spoke with Milinda Ysasi, CEO of GROW and newly elected president of the Grand Rapids City Commission. Together, they explored the significance of expanding access to capital for small businesses and the pivotal role of community leadership in fostering economic inclusion.
Milinda’s career path exemplifies the non-linear journey many take in the business world. Starting her professional life at Cascade Engineering, she gained firsthand experience in the manufacturing sector. Her transition to human resources marked the beginning of her involvement with community development and workforce issues, beginning the path that ultimately lead her to her current role at GROW.
GROW, which stands for Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women, focuses on providing necessary resources and funding to small businesses. During the episode, Milinda mentioned that two-thirds of jobs are created by small businesses, highlighting their vital role in the community. However, the challenges faced by these businesses are significant, particularly in accessing capital.
As the new president of the Grand Rapids City Commission, Milinda is in a unique position to influence local economic growth. She underscored the importance of collaboration over competition in the nonprofit sector, stating, “We are not going to be the only organization a small business connects with.” This collaborative approach has allowed GROW to increase its lending significantly, demonstrating how working together can create opportunities for all.
During the episode, both Catherine and Milinda stressed the value of networking for business owners. Building connections within the community can provide support, resources, and insights that are invaluable for entrepreneurial success. Milinda encourages business owners to seek out mentorship and guidance, emphasizing that it’s okay not to have all the answers.
To hear more, make sure to check out the full episode above!
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