A Night Celebrating Growth.

Honoring the deals, dealmakers, and connections shaping West Michigan’s business culture.

The Crain’s Grand Rapids Business M&A Deals and Dealmakers Awards returned this year for the 13th time, and the energy in the room was undeniable. This event celebrates our region, as West Michigan continues to grow, innovate, and invest in its future.

From the first conversations over great food to the last round of handshakes at the end of the night, the awards were a reminder that dealmaking is as much about relationships as it is about strategy. Because behind every transaction is a story of persistence, collaboration, and belief in this community.

Mercantile Bank was honored to be recognized as the winner in the Banking & Finance category, alongside so many organizations and individuals whose work is shaping West Michigan’s economic landscape. While awards mark milestones, what made the evening even more special was the shared sense of momentum and the collective impact those deals have on local jobs, businesses, and long-term sustainability.

Crain’s and its independent panel of judges highlighted transactions that reflect the strength and resilience of the region’s business community, particularly in today’s unpredictable climate. Each honoree represented a different corner of the market with a commitment to growth rooted right here in West Michigan.

It was a pleasure to spend the evening among peers and partners who continue to push the region forward.

2026 M&A Deals Award Winners

Deals

• Banking & Finance: Mercantile Bank

• Capital Raise: Sleeping Giant Capital

• Economic Development: Wolverine Worldwide, Inc.

• Healthcare: Beacon Health

• Manufacturing: Safari Grand Rapids

• Professional Services: Andy J. Egan Co.

• Real Estate & Development: Breton Village

• Retail: Kalamazoo State Theatre

• Technology: Payload CMS

Dealmakers

• Advisor: Mark Steenstra, Charter Capital

• Executive: Deepak Menon, Micro-LAM

• Investor: Paul D’Amato, Michigan Capital Network

• Young Dealmaker: Christian Rhoades, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

• Hall of Fame: Jeff Ott, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Congratulations to all the honorees! The stories recognized this year are proof that West Michigan continues to be a place where businesses grow and the people behind the deals truly make the difference.