Darlene Eaton Novak, owner of the Big Rapids Antique Shoppe, is making her childhood dream come true in the heart of Big Rapids’ Downtown.

“When I was a young girl I loved coming downtown and shopping. I always said, ‘When I get older, I want to have a business downtown,” Novak said.

Proud of the community’s rich business heritage, Novak is excited about the role of small business in the area’s economic future.

“I see us as ‘historic downtown Big Rapids’,” Novak said. “That’s our key to promoting Big Rapids and supporting Big Rapids through the economic times that we’re in. We’ve got niche businesses, and we have something here for everybody.

“I see Big Rapids as something very special.”

Small businesses continue to be one of the biggest economic drivers in Michigan. The Mecosta County Chamber of Commerce has experts in virtually every area of business management.

Chmaber volunteers are both retired and active business owners or managers. Small business counselors volunteer because they have enjoyed successful careers in business and want to give something back to their communities. They give their time and expertise so that more small businesses find success.

All small business counseling is free.

“I was in education and finally retired. I decided if I’m going to have a business I’ve got to do it now,” Novak said. “We opened in Sept. 2007. It is the most wonderful experience I have had.”

To arrange a meeting with a small business counselor, a request form must be completed. Please contact the Chamber at (231) 796-7649.