Region Awards

Technology Business
From the Schoolcraft College Office
Ventech, LLC Owner: Jeremy Sanger
Description: Ventech has developed an advanced supplemental heater technology that has the capacity to heat interiors spaces in dramatically faster times than existing technology. The MI-SBTDC helped Mr. Sanger establish strategic partnerships and licensing to begin commercializing his technology in the automobile industry.
MI-SBTDC Counselor: Vikram Mathur / Phil Tepley

Main Street Business
From the Monroe County IDC Office
Computer Works, Inc.
Owners: Robert Dahm and Kevin Dahm II
Description: The Dahm brothers have expanded from an in-home computer repair operation to a thriving 10-person repair and Web development firm. The MI-SBTDC helped them get an SBA 504 loan to make their purchase. Projected growth should lead to 15 new jobs.
MI-SBTDC Counselor: Tim Lake

Office Awards

EMU Detroit Office
Business: Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine
Owner: Vincente Vazquez
Description: Mr. Vazquez opened in July, 2005 after participating in the 12-week Mexican Town Mercado Training Program and receiving almost a half million dollars in financing. The business continues to grow as its reputation for quality food and ambience spreads.
MI-SBTDC Counselor: Wendy Thomas

Walsh College Office
Business: CDG Preferred Properties LLC
Owners: Denise Griffith and Monica Starks
Description: Ms. Griffith and Ms. Starks attended start-up seminars with the MI-SBTDC before launching a real estate management firm that has evolved to include a fast growing construction company.
MI-SBTDC Counselor: Pat Salo / Lawrence Jackson

Wayne County One Stop Business Resource Center
Business: Wall Street Cafe
Owner: Ramone Crowe
Description: Mr. Crowe opened in June, 2004 using a small business loan obtained with the assistance of the MI-SBTDC, and he continues to work with us to expand his concept to new sites.
MI-SBTDC Counselor: Lawrence Jackson

Schoolcraft College Office
Business: Hypes Holding dba Papa Romano’s
Owner: Charlotte Clay
Description: The MI-SBTDC helped Ms. Clay receive financing for the successful purchase of a Papa Romanos Restaurant in Dearborn.
MI-SBTDC Counselor: Lola Are’

Jefferson East Business Association Office
Business: M’Dear’s Restaurant
Owner: Terrance Snyder
Description: The MI-SBTDC has worked with the owners of this highly regarded Creole restaurant to help them improve their financial planning and to develop plans for future growth.
MI-SBTDC Counselor: Jim Brogden

Pontiac Business Development Center Office
Business: Soka Services, LLC
Owner: Shalon Lee
Description: Ms. Lee provides in-home social work services to adult and geriatric clients. She added five employees, established new internal procedures, and recruited a new team of service providers with the help of the MI-SBTDC counseling and training.
MI-SBTDC Counselor: Lola Are’