SAGINAW, MI -- Central Michigan University Research Corp. has opened applications for Lift ME, a free business accelerator program designed to help small businesses in the Great Lakes Bay Region grow and expand their operations.

The program targets established businesses that have been operating for at least two years and generate more than $30,000 in annual revenue. Eligible businesses must be for-profit enterprises founded or currently operating within the Bay City, Midland, Mt. Pleasant or Saginaw area. Franchises and businesses affiliated with national chains are not eligible.

Applications are being accepted now through Jan. 7 at 11:59 p.m.

Lift ME provides participating businesses with a designated CMURC account manager who will help develop custom work plans with trackable milesto

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