Food Business Essentials for Growth Event

Whether you’re a startup, established business, food truck, or other food-based enterprise, this event is a great opportunity to connect, learn, and grow.

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Featured Presenter

Michigan Good Food Fund in partnership with Grand Rapids Downtown Market

Friday, September 25, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 12 Noon. Doors open at 8:00 a.m.

Food businesses from across the Grand Rapids and West Michigan region are welcome to attend, including those operating in commercial kitchens and growth-stage food enterprises. This event is designed for businesses at all stages, from startups to established companies, including consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands, bakeries, caterers, food trucks, and other food-based businesses. Attendees must be registered for the event and will be required to pay for their own parking.

Free event, light breakfast, food, and beverages will be provided by Grand Rapids Downtown Market.

Featured presenter: Faris Alami

Faris Alami is an entrepreneur, business leader, and Founder and CEO of International Strategic Management (ISM), where he works to strengthen entrepreneurship and small business growth, particularly in underserved communities. His own journey, from a Palestinian refugee in Kuwait to building a career and business in the United States, has shaped his commitment to helping entrepreneurs navigate challenges, build sustainable businesses, and create economic opportunity.

Faris has served as a special advisor and entrepreneurial ecosystem expert with the World Bank, a business advisor with the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program, and a mentor to entrepreneurs and MBA students around the world. His work spans entrepreneurship, enterprise development, mentorship, funding, and workforce development, bringing together public, private, and community partners to help businesses and entrepreneurial ecosystems grow.