In 2004, Six statewide leaders (now identified as Founders) met to discuss how to recognize, celebrate and cultivate Michigan’s small businesses. The leaders decided to bring together the individual small business awards program of their organizations under one robust statewide awards program, Michigan Celebrates Small Business (MCSB). Since inception the intent has been that this program belongs to the state of Michigan, no individual entity. The Founders of MCSB recognized a need for the program to place emphasis on recognition of growth companies. After rigorous brainstorming they identified that an award would be initiated called the Michigan 50 Companies to Watch, making the Edward Lowe Foundation the administrator of this component of the MCSB program, adding the foundation as an integral originator of MCSB.
Since the inception of MCSB in 2004, the purpose, mission and vision has remained the same:
Purpose of MCSB
Michigan Celebrates Small Business brings together the resources of collaborative partners and supporters so that they may raise the profile of small businesses in Michigan, build a network of entrepreneurial companies, and tell the stories of successful, growing Michigan entrepreneurs.
MCSB Vision Statement:
Michigan Celebrates Small Business (MCSB) remains on the forefront of championing small business and fostering the entrepreneurial spirit in Michigan. The MCSB’s role is to serve as a catalyst for creating an entrepreneurial culture while inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs.
MCSB Mission Statement:
The mission of MCSB is to honor and recognize Michigan’s small business people and those champions and advocates that support them.
To be considered for selection as one of the Michigan 50 Companies to Watch, the enterprise must meet the following for the year ending 2019.