Work With Us!

At Venture North, our work begins with people: entrepreneurs with vision, grit, and a deep commitment to their communities.

Since our inception, we have stood beside small business owners across northwest Michigan, especially those navigating barriers to traditional financing and resources. As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), our mission is rooted in access, partnership, and possibility. When you join our team, you become part of that mission, supporting farmers, makers, childcare providers, innovators, and neighbors who are building stronger local economies. If you’re passionate about meaningful work, collaborative problem-solving, and helping small business dreams take root and grow, we invite you to explore opportunities with us below.

Emmet/Charlevoix Counties – Small Business Service

Reports To: President

Status: Contractual

Position Summary

The individual in this position develops relationships and understanding of Venture North services with a goal of deploying low-cost capital loans and no-cost technical assistance that helps small businesses grow.

Primary Responsibilities

Community Outreach & Relationship Building (Primary Focus)

  • Identify and engage target communities and underserved markets within Emmet, Charlevoix and other counties as needed.

  • Build and maintain relationships with economic development organizations, municipalities, financial institutions, chambers, trade groups and others.  Carry-out grassroots, in-person outreach to build trust and understanding of services.

  • Represent Venture North at meetings, events and forums. 

Lead Generation

  • Develop and maintain a steady flow of prospective, qualified borrowers. 

  • Track inquiries, referrals, and follow-up.

  • Conduct intake conversations to understand business needs, readiness, and fit with Venture North services.  

Data Tracking & Reporting

  • Maintain accurate records of outreach, referrals, inquiries, and application status

  • Track community engagement activities and outcomes using reporting tools

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience

  • Familiarity with Emmet and Charlevoix County communities, including small businesses

  • Valid driver’s license

Desired Skills

  • Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills

  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

  • Self-starter who works well independently while connected to a team

  • Sound judgment, strong interpersonal skills 

Compensation

The contractual agreement will be 15-20 hours per week at $75/hour through December 31, 2026.  This part-time contractual position has potential to become a full-time position. 

Contact for More Information:  Tim Ervin — timervinassoc@gmail.com — 231-794-0089