LEAP Invests in the Lansing Region’s Retail Future with Free On-Demand Business Training
Small businesses in Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties can enroll at no cost through August 31, 2026
LANSING, Mich. — (May 26, 2026) — The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) is offering free, on-demand small business training to retail business owners, startups, and entrepreneurs across Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties through August 31, 2026. In conjunction with Retail Strategies, LEAP is providing 12 months of access to an online learning platform built to help businesses strengthen and modernize their operations.
The program includes three self-paced learning paths focused on Omni-Channel Retail Strategies, Business Modernization, and Restaurant Resilience.
“Along with business attraction, it is imperative for us to build and sustain strong retail corridors,” said LEAP president and CEO Bob Trezise. “Small business investment supports families and communities, builds longevity and resiliency, stronger neighbors, creates jobs, and provides the economic diversity that our region needs.”
Strong local retail districts help generate tax revenue, activate storefronts, reduce vacancies, and create vibrant, walkable communities where people want to live, work, and gather.
The program is powered by Retail Strategies, a national community development and retail consulting firm with experience helping communities strengthen commercial corridors across the country. Courses feature guidance from experienced professionals in digital marketing, customer engagement, business operations, financial planning, and modern retail strategies.
“Small business owners are invested in the communities they serve because they don’t just work here, they live here, raise their families here, support local organizations, and give back in countless ways,” said Jason Denovich, small business owner and president of the St. Johns Area Chamber of Commerce. “Supporting programs that help small businesses succeed is an investment in the long-term strength, resilience, and vitality of our entire region.”
Local Business Leaders See a Need for Practical Support
“Old Town businesses have always been resilient, but there’s no question they’re navigating real challenges right now like rising costs, changing customer habits, and the growing pressure to keep up in an increasingly digital world,” said James Lenon, executive director of Lansing’s Old Town Commercial Association. “What we continue to hear from our business community is the need for practical, accessible support that actually helps them grow and succeed. We’re excited to see LEAP stepping up with resources that directly support the small businesses that make districts like Old Town Lansing unique, vibrant, and worth investing in.”
“We have heard the feedback from our clients and partners that small business owners need more support in more ways,” said Harrison Leffel-Jones, VP of Small Business & Innovation at LEAP. “Retail Strategies allows us to meet our entrepreneurs where they are at by providing high-quality content right at their fingertips, 24/7, 365 days a year. This type of program is the future of small business support at LEAP and we are proud to be bringing this resource the community”
How to Enroll
Enrollment is free and open to all local businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs the in Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties. Participants who register by August 31, 2026, will receive 12 months of access to the online training platform. Learn more and sign up at www.purelansing.com/retail.
This offering is made possible through funding from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and in part by SLFRP0127, which was awarded to the State of Michigan by the U.S. Department of the Treasury as part of the American Rescue Plan.
