HUB Small Business Resource Navigator
Posted by Lake Superior Community Partnership on September 11, 2026
Employment Status: Full-time (Limited Term – Grant-funded through December 31, 2027
Career Pathway: Special Position
Department: Economic Development
FLSA Status: Exempt, Salary
Reports To: SBSH Program Manager (Special Position)
Direct Reports: None
POSITION SUMMARY
Small Business Resource Navigators supply small business support, connectivity, and counseling to the Central Upper Peninsula Small Business Support Hub’s (“the HUB”) small business participants. This position conducts intake assessments to understand each entrepreneur’s stage, goals, and barriers, in order to provide either hands-on support on business strategy and financial planning or to connect them to existing local, regional, state and federal resources, including identification of capital opportunities and supporting application preparation. This position is a front-line position, actively representing the HUB via direct engagement with hundreds of businesses annually. The Hub serves seven counties (Marquette, Alger, Delta, Dickinson, Menominee, Schoolcraft, and Baraga), with this position centrally based and requiring regular travel throughout its assigned territory for proactive outreach, community events, and partnership with MI-SBDC, UP Michigan Works!, SmartZones, CDFIs, and EDOs.
This is a full-time, grant-funded position authorized through December 31, 2027, with the potential for continuation for 2 more years dependent upon securing additional funding.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES AND OBJECTIVES
Business Development
- Assist HUB entrepreneurs with business plan development, financial projections, and strategic planning to support startup, growth, and sustainability.
- Connect businesses to resources, referring for services (LSCP Business Development, Innovate Marquette SmartZone, MTEC SmartZone, MI-SBDC, KBIC, STT, Accelerate UP, SBA, MEDC, U.P. Michigan Works, Northern Initiatives, EDOs, CUPPAD, Apex Accelerators, etc.,).
- Provide follow-up support and business assistance based on company needs.
- Track visit outcomes, partner data, and program metrics to support reporting and evaluation.
- Provide guidance in developing and implementing succession plans.
- Connect regularly with participants at physical locations in assigned Upper Peninsula counties as well as virtually.
Program & Project Support
- Coordinate and either host or co-host small business workshops, trainings, networking, and other events as determined to be most impactful in each assigned county (minimum of two per year) *
- Support grant and Direct Grant administration activities as assigned.
- Maintain documentation as required by The HUB and its funding sources, timely.
- Conduct research and data analysis to support The HUB’s business development strategies.
- Recommend actions for marketing the HUB in assigned territory*
- Continually learn and engage in professional development opportunities to better perform their role.
External Representation & Stakeholder Engagement
- Represent The HUB at business and community events, occasionally outside of standard work hours.
- Build and maintain relationships with businesses, public sector representatives, and community partners in their assigned territory.
- Help identify gaps in small business resources and collaborate with Program Manager and partners to develop solutions that enhance support services.
- Monitor local, state, and federal economic development policies and programs.
Other duties as assigned.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
Experience and Core Competencies
- Ability to develop and maintain professional relationships with businesses and community partners.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills with attention to detail.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking and presentations.
- Analytical and problem-solving mindset, with the ability to research and interpret data.
- Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
- Professional demeanor and respect for confidentiality.
Technical Skills & Knowledge
- Familiarity with business development practices, economic development programs, and local/state resources.
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and other business software.
- Understanding of Northern Michigan’s economic, cultural, and political environment.
Education, Experience, and Certifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, marketing, communications, social sciences, or related field preferred.
- Valid Michigan Driver’s License.
- Sales or customer service experience is a plus.
- Reliable transportation and ability to travel throughout their assigned territory is required.
TOTAL REWARDS INFORMATION
Dependent upon education, certifications, and experience with a hiring range established under the LSCP’s compensation and career advancement policy. This position is eligible for annual and quarterly bonus programs, Simple IRA, Paid Time Off (PTO), and Health/Vision/Dental (employee-only).
The LSCP offers clear opportunities for career growth. Because this is a Special Position (grant-funded), it does not have an established LSCP career pathway. Full details on career growth expectations and opportunities are available to LSCP employees.
The information above aligns with current LSCP policies, benefits, and compensation strategies. Details are subject to change, and individual deviations may be permitted depending on the skillset of the individual in the position at any given time.
This job description is intended to provide clarity on the essential responsibilities and expectations for this role. It is not an exhaustive list of qualifications, skills, duties, or responsibilities.
