For Entrepreneurs, by Entrepreneurs.
At Can-Do Kalamazoo, we support entrepreneurs at any stage of business. Our programs, commercial spaces, networks, guidance, and tools help to transform your ideas into something great.
Small Business Support Hub
Our team of experienced entrepreneurs are ready to help and support you on your business journey, from startup strategies to growth hacks - we're your go-to partner in making things happen.
From Can-Do Camp and workshops to our intensive Business Boost sessions, we offer a range of programs tailored to entrepreneurs at every stage.
PROGRAMS
At CDK, we believe in providing access for all, a strong commitment to anti-racism and equality, and supporting entrepreneurs at any stage of business.
CULTURE
Since 2007, we’ve helped entrepreneurs turn ideas into reality, grow local businesses, and create a thriving, inclusive community here in Kalamazoo.
COMMUNITY
Can-Do Kalamazoo Partners
How We Got Started
Back in 2007, Can-Do Kalamazoo started when our founder, Lucy Dilley, began a problem-solving journey for an aspiring food entrepreneur. That journey turned into a mission to provide resources and remove systemic barriers for entrepreneurs here in Kalamazoo. Today, we champion entrepreneurs of all backgrounds, providing the tools and encouragement needed to succeed.
Our Impact
For 16 years we’ve helped entrepreneurs turn ideas into reality, grow local businesses, and create a thriving, inclusive community here in the Greater Kalamazoo Area.
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New Kalamazoo entrepreneurs supported by Can-Do Kalamazoo annually
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Unique entrepreneur programs offered by Can-Do Kalamazoo each year
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of every $100 spent at a local business stays within the local economy
We're excited to announce the first phase of our new entrepreneurial hub at 519 S. Park St. is now open! This space is designed for collaboration and growth, hustle and hard work - providing a foundation to take your business where you want it to go.
Our new space has everything you need, from expanded kitchen facilities to conference rooms, private offices, and open-format coworking desks.
And it’s just the beginning.
Our New Facility
Can-Do Programs, Spaces and Resources
Can-Do Programs
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This three-year program offers a supportive and low-risk environment to develop your commercial food business. Guided by experienced entrepreneurs, you'll achieve key milestones and discover how you can prepare for a market-ready commercial space or continue renting our kitchen, all within a collaborative and inclusive setting.
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Can-Do Camp is a 90-day group program in which you’ll learn all the necessary requirements and best practices for starting a business or taking a new business to the next level.
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5 one-hour meetings with CDK staff to gain guidance on branding, marketing, LLCs, websites, social media, sales venues, financials, and funding.
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Our workshops offer unique, dynamic topics and hands-on work sessions designed to help you take actionable steps for your business. Whether you're launching or scaling, these sessions provide practical tools and insights to keep you moving forward.
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Meetings with CDK staff to cover the essential requirements for starting a business in a commercial kitchen. Can also be combined with Business Boost.
Our Resources
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Coming soon!
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As a proud partner of LISC Kalamazoo and a Kiva Loan Trustee, we’re here to guide you through funding opportunities tailored to your goals; together, we’ll make sure you have all the financial tools to grow your business.
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Schedule a one-hour session with our team of experienced entrepreneurs to get personalized guidance on building and growing your business. Whether you need advice on branding, marketing, forming an LLC, creating a website, navigating social media, identifying sales venues, managing finances, or securing funding, we’re here to help.
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List coming soon.
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Good design is a game-changer in today’s competitive market, and we know a professional, compliant product label can make all the difference when launching a new product. That’s why we’ve created the Can-Do Label Bundles - a budget-friendly solution for entrepreneurs and small business owners who need to get their products shelf-ready without breaking the bank.
Eligibility requires business operation for one year or less and participation in a Can-Do Kalamazoo program within the past twelve months.
Working Spaces
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New food businesses as well as existing businesses will find a home in our kitchen. Our hourly rental includes all facility overhead, so kitchen members don’t have to deal with the headaches of running a kitchen.
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Pilot Program Available
Our coworking spaces offer flexible options, whether you need an hour, a day, a week, or a month. Open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM, our entrepreneur-focused, collaborative environment is perfect for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners.
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As part of Phase Two of our new facility, we’re excited to announce plans for a versatile event space and pop-up space! Stay tuned as we work toward bringing this vision to life!
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As part of Phase Two of our new facility, we’re excited to announce plans for a versatile event space and pop-up space! Stay tuned as we work toward bringing this vision to life!
Other Ways to Get Involved
Visit Us
519 S. Park St Suite 2 Kalamazoo, MI 49007
Hours
Monday–Thursday
9am–5pm
Fridays 9am-3pm
Phone
(269) 492-0261