PNC Lift ME Cohort Celebrates Graduation of Local Entrepreneurs

Participants gained valuable resources, connections + support to accelerate business growth.

Central Michigan University Research Corporation (CMURC) proudly celebrates the graduation of the 2026 PNC Lift ME Cohort, a business development program designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses through education, mentorship, strategic connections, and access to critical resources.

Made possible by PNC Bank, the Lift ME program brings together entrepreneurs from diverse industries and backgrounds to build stronger business foundations, expand professional networks, and accelerate growth opportunities.  "At PNC, we believe small businesses are essential to creating strong communities and economic opportunity," said PNC Bank Vice President and Client and Community Relations Director Leslie Batchelor. "Through our collaboration with CMURC, we are proud to support entrepreneurs as they gain the knowledge, connections, and resources needed to grow their businesses and make a lasting impact in the Great Lakes Bay Region."

The 2026 PNC Lift ME Cohort included seven entrepreneurs from across the Great Lakes Bay Region: Ask Ashley Advisement, Sparkle Tees, Growing Hands by KR, Scrubbydubs Cleaning Service, Just Pen It, Amia Home, and Angela M Carter Services.

Throughout the program, participants engaged in educational workshops, one-on-one coaching, mentorship opportunities, networking events, and strategic introductions to regional resource partners. CMURC facilitated connections to financial institutions, legal professionals, economic development organizations, and other business support agencies to help entrepreneurs navigate challenges and position their businesses for long-term success.

"Lift Me reminded me that I am worth investing in," said Just Pen It owner Sandra Crosby-Robinson. "It strengthened my confidence as a business owner while giving me expanded knowledge in financial management, marketing, technology, and partnerships.

CMURC continues to develop entrepreneurial programs that provide education, mentorship, resources, and connections to help businesses grow throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region. 

"One of the most rewarding aspects of this work has been taking the programs, partnerships, and lessons we've built over the years and scaling them into cohort-based experiences that create meaningful impact for entrepreneurs,” said CMURC President + CEO Erin Strang. “Each cohort allows us to connect more small business owners with the education, mentorship, and relationships they need to succeed. When our entrepreneurs and small businesses grow, they create jobs, strengthen local economies, and invest back into their communities. That's a win for everyone."

To learn more about CMURC’s entrepreneurial programs

and partnership opportunities to support local entrepreneurs, visit cmurc.com. To learn more about PNC’s commitment to supporting communities and small businesses, visit PNC.com.