
5 local businesses. 5 minutes. $5K. Startup Zoo returns.
The entrepreneur support network returns with the first of its new monthly pitch competitions and a series of programs to invigorate local business growth.

From the gym to gaming to a business idea
Playing video games was supposed to pass time until the pandemic ended and gyms opened back up. Then Jon Elms, a fitness coach, created an energy drink company for gym rats and gamers alike that is expanding beyond Kalamazoo after some help from another local business owner.

Nigerian fusion food comes to Kalamazoo
Isa Clark spent many hours in the kitchen growing up in the Niger Delta region, helping feed an extended family and a steady stream of visitors. Now it’s the Kalamazoo community’s time to feast.

‘This is what the community wanted. I helped facilitate it.’
Chris Dilley’s influence has helped redefine Kalamazoo’s food landscape. He’s been instrumental in the transformation of the People’s Food Co-op for nearly half the time it’s been in operation. Now, he’s moving on.

‘Time to double down’
Advisor to a gun violence prevention initiative in Kalamazoo says the severity of the crisis looms large, despite a recent drop in homicides.

From the managing editor’s notebook: A snapshot of homelessness in Kalamazoo
NowKalamazoo’s Kristie May helped conduct a nighttime count of anyone sleeping outdoors within Kalamazoo County. Here’s what she learned.

KDPS chief loses misconduct review, wins retirement deal
Kalamazoo’s chief of public safety stands accused of discrimination and harassment during the brief time he was in charge of the department. But Vernon Coakley is being allowed to retire with a year of pay and full benefits.

A sister by her side. A family behind her back.
It takes a will, skill, and family for two women running a cafe in the middle of rural Scotts. Yet the community is grateful they’ve taken it on, from the retired couple who offered them the chance, to their meat suppliers who are also regular diners.