Stories

Innovation News urbanroots

The meaning behind Urban Roots' "Grow, eat, learn"


Feature Story Lauren Rahman Thompson

RapidChat: Lauren Rahman Thompson on World Refugee Day, Treetops Collective, and more.

"It’s easy to forget 'refugee' is only a status, not an identity," states Lauren Rahman Thompson, Director of Operations at Treetops Collective. It's time to be more aware, get educated, and take action beyond World Refugee Day on June 20th.

Feature Story Jen Shaneberger

UIX: Michigan Creative Chambers connects the dots for filmmakers, other creatives in Grand Rapids

What's standing between creativity and economic growth? The Creative Chambers initiative is answering that question and will administer a total of $250,000 in grants over the next three years to various creative projects, including film, graphic design, and storytelling.

Development News image

AMS renovation supports collaboration, reflects its culture, and lets the sunshine in

Mechanical contracting firm Allied Mechanical Services (AMS) recently completed a 4,673 square-foot renovation that included nine private offices and two workstations. Custer Inc., a provider of workplace design, office furniture, integrated technology, and interior remodels, oversaw the project.

Innovation News INgrsummer

#GRSummerProject: A platform and movement in the hands of the youth


Feature Story Hope Ramesey

Let's get social: Follow sustainable fashion enthusiast Hope Ramseyer

Grand Rapidian Hope Ramseyer discovers and connects with a “slow fashion” community. On Instagram, she shares her insights on her travels, fashion, and favorite foods (@hope.caroline.r) both local and abroad.

Feature Story Alayna Williams

Leaderboard, 1-0: A VOICES essay on competition and contentment

"Grades and numbers should not be the end or beginning of a person’s potential. There is no way a letter or number or leaderboard can truly measure a person’s intelligence and abilities," says eighth grader Alayna Williams, who in this special VOICES essay, explores competition, confidence, and homework.

Feature Story  Filmmaking

Despite challenges, West Michigan filmmakers pursue their passions

Despite what some might perceive as a lack of glitz, glamour, or available funding, West Michigan filmmakers are making great stuff, pursuing filmmaking in underrepresented genres like thriller and horror, and celebrating their work in a tight-knit community.

Feature Story ComcastHappyHour

High Growth Happy Hour: Great beer, positive vibes, and practical encouragement for entrepreneurs

On Tuesday, Grand Rapids area entrepreneurs learned how to better grow their dreams at Rapid Growth’s annual Comcast High Growth Happy Hour at Creston Brewery. Beer taps flowed, plates filled with delicious eats emptied quickly, and the diverse panel of local entrepreneurs spilled the secrets of their success.

Development News DNfarmersmarket2067

Fulton Street Farmers Market "Summer Night Series" headlines market upgrades and improvements

The Fulton Street Farmers Market 2018 summer season offers additional parking, new bike racks, upgrades to bathrooms and signage, more vendors, and a family-friendly Summer Night Series from 5 to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays.


Feature Story Wammack

RapidChat: Jennifer Wammack on a more sustainable Furniture City, USA

What makes Jennifer Wammack great? It's not only her ample resume highlighting 30-plus years experience within the realm of furniture product design. As Director of Outreach at BIFMA, she is ever-so passionate about the Triple Bottom Line of Furniture City, USA.

Feature Story What the Truck

10 food trucks to watch this summer

Spring has rolled into summer and all of the food trucks around West Michigan are following suit. While you spend the day with your friends and family, be sure to check out one of these 10 unique food trucks.

Feature Story Maria Erazo

High Growth Happy Hour features local, diverse business owners

On June 11, Rapid Growth will partner with Comcast to bring Grand Rapids their annual High Growth Happy Hour. Read up on our talented small business owner panelists!

Feature Story midtown

My heart's in Midtown: A Neighborhoods of GR essay

In this special edition of Neighborhoods of GR, writer and former Midtown resident Marjorie Steele dives into her love for the neighborhood's diversity, chill vibes, and affordability.

Feature Story Books

Michigan authors you should be reading on vacation

These Michigan authors have published their new books just in time for summer. From history to poetry to motivation, it's time to stock up on local writing.

Development News DNagegr

Grand Rapids seeks WHO age-friendly community designation

The City of Grand Rapids plans on earning  WHO age-friendly community designation. In early May, the City Commission unanimously approved the first step by creating an Age-Friendly Advisory Council. Their goal will be to develop a community action plan that makes Grand Rapids a great place for older adults. 

Feature Story Atomic

Growth and Scaling in Grand Rapids: A Q&A with Atomic Object

Started in 2001, Atomic Object has grown from a DIY tech startup powered by a few laptops and a long-term vision, to a thriving company with a national roster of clients, 62 employees, two offices in Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor, and $10 million in annual revenue. Two AO atoms discuss the company's scale, growth, and innovation.

Development News Jeffery

Artist, designer debuts Kindel Furniture collection at High Point

In April, Kindel Grand Rapids debuted its Jeffery Roberts Collection at the High Point Market, the largest home furnishings industry trade show in the world.