Cornerstone Alliance to Celebrate Regional Entrepreneurs
Cornerstone Alliance to Celebrate Regional Entrepreneurs at ELEVATE 2026
Cornerstone Alliance's Entrepreneurial Services will host ELEVATE 2026 on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Blue Dress Barn in Benton Harbor. The annual celebration will recognize entrepreneurs across Southwest Michigan and celebrate graduates of the 2026 Business Plan Certified program.
"ELEVATE celebrates the entrepreneurs who are taking risks, creating opportunities and investing in the future of our communities," said Brandy Jaquez, Managing Director of Cornerstone Alliance's Entrepreneurial Services. "The event also recognizes graduates of our Business Plan Certified program, an eight-month program that provides entrepreneurs with the tools, resources and guidance needed to develop a strong business plan and prepare their businesses for growth. Bringing together entrepreneurs, mentors, and community partners allows us to celebrate their accomplishments and the support system behind their success."
Cornerstone Alliance's Entrepreneurial Services provides entrepreneurs with business counseling, education, technical assistance and connections to resources that help them start and grow successful businesses. Through strategic partnerships, including support from title sponsor United Federal Credit Union, Cornerstone helps strengthen the region's entrepreneurial ecosystem and expand opportunities for local business owners.
This year's event will feature keynote speakers Amelia and Kirby Briske, founders of Blue Dress Barn. The couple will share their entrepreneurial journey of building a successful hospitality business, adapting through changing markets and expanding their vision into multiple ventures that have contributed to Southwest Michigan's growing wedding and tourism economy.
The event will also feature remarks from Chris Rishko, Managing Director, Small Business at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship and small business support across Michigan.
Following the keynote presentations, Cornerstone Alliance will recognize the graduates of the 2026 Business Plan Certified program for their commitment to building sustainable businesses and contributing to the region's economic vitality.
ELEVATE 2026 is open to entrepreneurs, business professionals, community leaders, and supporters of small business success. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with program graduates, fellow entrepreneurs and regional partners while celebrating local business achievements.
Tickets are available through Eventbrite. Organizations interested in sponsorship opportunities should contact Jenna Huffman-Schmidt, Events Manager, at jhuffman-schmidt@cstonealliance.org.
About Cornerstone Alliance:
Cornerstone Alliance is the economic development organization dedicated to fostering growth and prosperity in Michigan’s Great Southwest. Through strategic initiatives and collaborative partnerships, Cornerstone Alliance drives innovation and opportunity, positioning the region for sustainable economic success. As the leading advocate for the local business and development sector, Cornerstone Alliance delivers tailored business assistance across Berrien County.
