Free Market Resource Tool Launch & More

Velocity Team
Jun 25
4 min read

Updated: Jul 2

Welcome to our June Blog

In this blog, we are excited to bring you stories where innovation and community are prominently featured. Get ready to be inspired by the incredible ideas and collaborative efforts from our community.

Keep reading below for more information regarding:

SizeUp Sterling Heights: New Business Resource Tool
Velocity Podcast Lounge: Join The Waitlist
Velocity Tenant Success Story: Featuring Marc Shepard
Women's Business Builder: Celebrate The Graduates
LDFA Board Members: Special Features
Velocity in The News: Announcements & Articles
Upcoming Events: Save Your Seat

Velocity Launches SizeUp Sterling Heights

Free market research tool now available to all Macomb County businesses!

SizeUp Sterling Heights provides business owners, start-ups and aspiring entrepreneurs with market research and business insights to help them make smarter decisions with data to effectively grow their business.

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Velocity Podcast Launch Coming Soon

Podcast Lounge Powered by MCM Learning

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new Podcast Lounge at Velocity. Our fully equipped podcast lounge will enable community members to book the space and collaborate with fellow entrepreneurs.

Join Waitlist

Marc Shepard to Lead RSGS Michigan Office as VP, GM

Rafael Systems Global Sustainment (RSGS), a U.S. proxy company and authorized broker for Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, proudly announces the opening of its new office in Sterling Heights, Michigan. The new facility will serve as the company’s Michigan technology and management headquarters focused on ground vehicle-related business. This expansion represents a major milestone in RSGS’s commitment to supporting government and industry partners, while actively contributing to Michigan’s thriving defense community.

“This new facility underscores our commitment to supporting our U.S. customers with greater proximity, responsiveness, and innovation,” said Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Joe Anderson, president of RSGS. “We are proud to strengthen our footprint in a region that is vital to national security and defense advancement.”

Strategically located at the Velocity Center, in the heart of the Michigan defense corridor, the new office will serve as a hub for collaboration with government customers, prime contractors, and industry partners. The decision to locate at Velocity was due in large part to Velocity’s designation as a Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) SmartZone and the site of the Macomb County International Landing Zone (ILZ).

Congratulations to our graduates of the Spring SisterSTART® Women's Business Builder Bootcamp 🎓🚀

Over six weeks, 15 inspiring women have worked to turn their business dreams into startup reality. It's been a privilege to facilitate this journey, witnessing firsthand the passion and determination of each participant. We’re excited to support and cheer them on as they continue to break new ground.

Congratulations to Reeti Choudhury, Monique Turner, Trecia Jefferson Faison, Lee Capelli, Carlee Tinkler, Ashley Buffa, Renee' Henderson, Karen Avila, Kalona Croft-Rouser, Patricia Henderson, Starlett Simmons, Kenya Marshall, Yulonda Mitchell, Nicole Carey, and

Kimberly Lewis!

Get To Know: Saamer Mansoor

Conference Captioning, Founder & Chief Enablement Officer

Why I Chose To Serve:As a Sterling Heights resident and founder of an accessibility-focused tech startup, I’m passionate about inclusive innovation. I joined the LDFA board to help foster a local environment where all entrepreneurs — regardless of background or ability — have the tools and support to thrive.

Fun Fact:In my spare time, I enjoy exploring food, matcha, local parks & meeting people with my two young sons & wife.

Get To Know: AJ Doppke

Marketing Qubed, Managing Partner

Why I Chose To Serve:

If you know me, you know I am a strong believer in strengthening the local economy by supporting local business growth. I'm passionate about fostering innovation and growth within our community, and I believe the LDFA is a key player in achieving that.

Fun Fact:

I enjoy cooking and discovering new local spots.

Get To Know: Ted J Chudzik

President, Co-owner Fusion Fabricating & Manufacturing

Why I Chose To Serve:

I am passionate about giving back to the community that has supported my business for the last 17 years. I am eager to leverage my experience in business leadership and contribute to the success of our city. I believe that my background in manufacturing along with my knowledge from having my MBA from MSU and experience with the Emerging Leaders program as well as the Goldman Sachs 10,000 small business program will enable me to being a valuable perspective to the city board.

Fun Fact:

I enjoy travel with my family and I am committed to my overall health and enjoy running. I have completed the Detroit Free Press and the New York City Marathons. I plan to run the Boston Marathon sometime in the future!

Get To Know: Stacy Ziarko

President and CEO of Connect Macomb

Why I Chose To Serve:

I love being involved in my community and this seemed like a great opportunity to bridge my personal and professional interests.

Fun Fact:

I’m a reader, crafter, shopper and golfer!

Podcast Interview: Michigan Entrepreneur with Paula Macpherson, Executive Director, Velocity

Learn about Velocity's programs, grant opportunities, community events, co-working spaces and more in this informative Podcast hosted by Michigan Entrepreneur.

View Podcast

$19,000 in Grants Awarded at Velocity’s 3x3 Spring Pitch

“Taking home the top prize of $10,000 was Accutrak Consulting and Accounting Services, owned by Shaniece Bennett. Based in Chesterfield Township, Accutrak is a full-service accounting firm providing financial management consulting and accounting solutions to nonprofits, government agencies and commercial clients.” Click the article link below to keep reading.

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Velocity 3x3 Spring Pitch Featured in the Macomb Daily

“We’re absolutely thrilled to congratulate this year’s Velocity 3X3 Pitch Competition winners, Shaniece Bennett, owner of Accutrak Consulting and Accounting Services,” Meghan Hubbs, small business program manager for Velocity said, in a release announcing the winners. “Her creativity and vision truly stood out in a room full of inspiring entrepreneurs.”

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Velocity’s 2024 3x3 Fall Pitch Winner, Tennessee Hot Crackers Grand Opening

Congratulations to Sherman's Tennessee Hot Crackers on their Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting! From a small family operation turned into a nation wide household name, we are proud to have you bring the heat to Macomb County. You can find Sherman’s Tennessee Hot Crackers at your local Meijer.

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