City of Grand Rapids launches Phase Zero pilot to support local musicians as small businesses
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The City of Grand Rapids has launched Phase Zero, a pilot program designed to help local musicians formalize a small-business plan and participate directly in the City’s vendor system. The effort is part of the Cultural Business Enterprise (CBE) Initiative, which uses the City’s existing Micro Local Business Enterprise (MLBE) certification process to formally recognize musicians as micro-business enterprises.
Through Phase Zero, 15 to 18 musicians are being certified as Cultural Business Enterprises (CBEs) and paid as City vendors for free public performances throughout Ward 3 as a part of the pilot. These shows will be September 26th and are scheduled alongside SouthPrize, Southtown CIA’s neighborhood-driven art and culture event held during ArtPrize. These live performances are the core of Phase Zero. They give the City a chance to test how supporting musicians as vendors strengthens neighborhood activation, boosts foot traffic and creates momentum for future investment in the creative economy.
How Musicians Connect with Phase Zero
Musicians interested in participating connect through the Michigan Music Alliance, the City’s designated partner for artist coordination and certification. The Alliance guides artists through the MLBE process which steps as ensuring they have a registered LLC with the State of Michigan registered, are located in Kent County, are a registered vendor with the City of Grand Rapids, have paid at least one year of taxes amongst other criteria which can be found on the MLBE Application page. Once certified, musicians enter the CBE cohort and become eligible for Citypaid performances during the pilot window.
Amaad Hardy, business developer with the Office of Equity and Engagement, encouraged local musicians to get involved. “We want local musicians and live performers to see themselves as small businesses with real opportunities in Grand Rapids,” Hardy said. “Phase Zero gives artists a simple path into the City’s vendor system. If you’re a musician looking to grow, this is the time to connect with the Michigan Music Alliance and take advantage of this pilot.”
A Coordinated Public Investment
Phase Zero includes a combined $50,000 investment through the Third Ward Equity Fund. Southtown CIA is contributing $30,000 to support SouthPrize programming and venue activation, while the Office of Equity and Engagement is investing $20,000 for artist certification, compensation and coordination.
“It’s important for us to continue formalizing our local creative economy. For people wondering what to expect from this effort, we want them to think about the live music scene in Nashville, Tennessee or Austin, Texas. This is the first step in creating a vibrant live music & live performance ecosystem in Grand Rapids.” said Alvin (AJ) Hills IV, equal business opportunity program and river equity manager in the Office of Equity and Engagement.
Next Steps
The City will evaluate Phase Zero after the performance window closes and share results with the City’s Economic Development Project Team. These findings will help guide a potential citywide expansion of the Cultural Business Enterprise model in 2027, including opportunities for other creative workers such as visual artists and performers.
###
About SouthPrize
SouthPrize extends the energy of ArtPrize into Southtown’s commercial districts by transforming neighborhood businesses into storefront galleries that showcase local artists. The program encourages foot traffic, boosts neighborhood pride and strengthens connections between residents, artists and business owners. Visitors can explore six business districts (Madison Square, MLK & Eastern, Seymour Square, Boston Square, Alger Heights and South Division) supported by event-funded transportation connecting each corridor.
Throughout the event, local restaurants and shops offer SouthPrize-themed specials, and residents can participate in a public voting day and art expo on Sept. 26. Winners will be announced during an awards ceremony on Oct. 3, with cash prizes totaling $3,750.
