Our Business Support Network
A solid business plan, clear strategy, reliable financials and the right support network can make the difference between uncertainty and long‑term success. That’s why the City of Oak Park partners with a network of organizations to offer practical assistance, one‑on‑one coaching and other valuable resources.
Entrepreneur and small business support partners
These partners can help you refine your plan, analyze your model and build the skills needed to grow confidently.
- Oakland Thrive offers support including coaching, business-navigation services and small‑business guidance.
- SCORE SE Michigan provides mentoring from experienced business professionals, workshops, templates and other business tools.
- Michigan Small Business Development Center offers no‑cost consulting for business planning, market research, feasibility analysis and financial modeling.
- Centrepolis Accelerator at Lawrence Technological University: Centrepolis Accelerator offers hard-tech startups and small- to medium-sized manufacturers access to product development services and tailored funding solutions.
- BizBox by Metro Community Development: Small Business Education with BizBOX® - Metro Community, a 360-degree small business educational program, offers funding and technical assistance to prepare you to start your business and keep it afloat.
Training, skills development and workforce support
Strong businesses need strong teams. Oak Park’s educational and workforce partners can help develop talent, upgrade skills and build a workforce needed to thrive.
Oak Park Career Center (Michigan Works)Provides workforce development services connecting job seekers and employers, including job placement assistance, career counseling, and training resources to support employment needs in the community.
Oakland County Michigan Works - Going PRO Talent Fund
Going PRO Talent Fund offers funding to help businesses train, develop and retain employees. The program supports short-term training that addresses specific talent needs and results in industry-recognized, transferable credentials.
Oakland County Michigan Works – Business Services
Supports employers with talent solutions such as recruitment, workforce training and economic development services to help businesses grow and remain competitive.
Delivers customized workforce training and professional development programs to help businesses enhance employee skills and achieve strategic goals through industry-relevant education.
Labor and Economic Opportunity – Employment and Training
Partnering to recruit, upskill and retain valued employees; providing incentives to increase the bottom line while building an inclusive and diverse workplace; and helping connect employers with job seekers to meet their needs.
Lawrence Technological University – Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center
Promotes innovation and entrepreneurship by offering education, research opportunities and industry collaboration to support the development of new ideas and business ventures.
Oakland University – Business Incubator
Provides startups and entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship and support services to launch and grow businesses, contributing to regional economic development.
Operational support, resources and growth services
Businesses in Oak Park have access to a range of programs that support growth, problem‑solving and continuous improvement. These resources help business owners improve operations, expand into new markets, strengthen management practices and access specialized expertise.
Pure Michigan Business ConnectA statewide network connecting businesses to buyers, suppliers and service providers, with options for discounted or pro‑bono services.
CEED Lending
Microloans for startups and growing businesses needing funding for equipment, inventory or working capital.
Oakland County Business Center
Tools and advisors to help entrepreneurs start, refine or grow their businesses.
Automation Alley
Resources for technology, manufacturing and innovation‑driven companies.
Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center
Assistance with operational excellence, leadership development, process improvement and growth strategies for manufacturers and food processors.
Economic Gardening
Market research and strategic support for second‑stage companies ready for expansion.
Procurement Technical Assistance Center
For businesses exploring government contracting or procurement opportunities, PTAC at Schoolcraft College provides guidance on registration, bid identification, compliance and post-award support.