As a long-time community advocate with experience as the former Executive Director of the Northside Association for Community Development (NACD), she knows the challenges that small-scale developers and aspiring entrepreneurs face. That’s where Mercantile Bank and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis (FHLBI) come in.
We’re thrilled to announce that we’ve helped Mattie secure an Elevate Small Business Grant from FHLBI. The $20,000 grant will transform a space on her property into a dedicated office, giving Relative Care LLC the room it needs to:
Offering more services will make a measurable impact on Kalamazoo’s North Side, providing the much-needed support for local economic empowerment.
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"This grant means more than just an office—it’s a place where ideas can grow and opportunities can take root. As a long-time partner of Mercantile Bank, I’m grateful that they are continuing to walk alongside our community in this way,” |
This is what community development looks like to us, one business, one neighborhood, one opportunity at a time. Sonali Allen, our Chief Compliance & Community Development Officer, said it best, “Investing in leaders like Mattie creates ripple effects. It strengthens affordable housing efforts, supports entrepreneurship, and builds a more inclusive economy.”