Ready to Take the Leap?

Do you have a business idea that’s been sitting in your notebook, on the back burner, or just itching to come to life? If so, this program is for you!

We are excited to announce a new cohort of First Path, a ten-week guided program in partnership with Can-Do Kalamazoo and facilitated by the Plywood People. The First Path program is designed to help you explore, develop, and strengthen your business idea and is led by Ken Quayle from Can-Do Kalamazoo and Kevin Crittenden from Southwest Michigan First.

Throughout the program, you will work alongside fellow participants, mentors, and experienced entrepreneurs who have been in your shoes. First Path will lead you directly into the next step of your entrepreneurial journey with Can-Do Kalamazoo’s Can-Do Camp.

There’s no better time to transform your business dream into reality with the support of Southwest Michigan First and Can-Do Kalamazoo.

Who Should Apply

• Individuals with a business idea, big or small, who want to test it out with guidance and accountability.
• Those looking to refine or pivot an existing business concept.
• People who are ready to take the next step toward launching their own venture.

What You Can Expect

• Weekly video content, e-books, and guided reflections led by Plywood People.
• Group sessions with other entrepreneurs from the region.
• Local mentorship and support.
• A growing network of peers, alumni, and community partners.
• A clear, confidence-building pathway that leads directly into Can-Do Camp – your next step in launching your business.

2025 Summer Session Dates (Tuesdays via Zoom)

• July 8 | Kick-Off: Meet the Participants | 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
• July 15 | Section One: Potential of a Problem | 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
• July 22 | Section Two: Make the Project Personal | 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
• July 29 | Brainstorming Session | 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
• August 5 | Section Three: Attract People to the Purpose | 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
• August 12 | Section Four: From Clouds to Concrete | 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
• August 19 | Brainstorming Session | 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
• August 26 | Section Five: Progress on the Problem | 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
• September 2 | Section Six: Sustain the Solution | 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm
• September 9 | End of Program Celebration | 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm (*In-Person)

Program Cost

The investment for the First Path program is $200. Scholarship funds for the program are available. Please indicate your interest in learning more in your application.

Informational One-Pager

Download the First Path one-pager below.

First Path One-Pager

The Application Process

The application for 2025 is now open. If you have additional questions, contact our team at 269.553.9588.

Application

Program Partners

Delivered in Partnership With