SBTDC helps company retain jobs

Business counselors from the Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center at Grand Valley, assisted Proos Manufacturing of Grand Rapids in securing a loan to continue operations.

Amy Engelsma, owner of Proos Manufacturing, received counseling in the areas of strategic planning, financial analysis, internal management monitoring and assistance with bank financing. With SBTDC’s assistance, she received a loan from Fifth Third Bank that allowed her to continue operations of the company.

The SBTDC is a partner program of the Small Business Administration. The SBA and Proos Manufacturing will hold a news conference Tuesday, September 14, from 10-11 a.m., at 1037 Michigan St. NE in Grand Rapids, to highlight how small businesses are taking advantage of SBA programs.

Proos is an ISO-certified manufacturer that creates sophisticated metal stamping products, welded assemblies, custom electrical products and sheet metal fabrication. The company has more than 55 employees who work across several product markets: automotive, industrial, defense, medical, office furniture and electrical solutions.

For more information, contact Jennifer Deamud at (616) 331-7480.