GREATER BRIDGMAN CGA HELPS SECURE MDARD GRANTS FOR TWO LOCAL BUSINESSES

May 28, 2026

ChamberEconomicGeneral News ArticlePress ReleaseCommunityFeaturedHuman Interest

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:

Nancy Kiernan

Director

Greater Bridgman Area CGA

nkiernan@bridgmancga.org

GREATER BRIDGMAN CGA HELPS SECURE MDARD GRANTS FOR

TWO LOCAL BUSINESSES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

May 28, 2026

BRIDGMAN, MI — The Greater Bridgman Area Chamber and Growth Alliance (BCGA) is celebrating the achievement of two local businesses that have received grant funding through the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD), supporting economic vitality and small business growth in the Bridgman community.

Transient Artisan Ales Receives MDARD Grant

Transient Artisan Ales is the recipient of the Underserved, Value-Added, Regional Food Systems, and Supply Chain Grant totaling $95,000. The funding will support a feasibility study focused on redeveloping the property along Lake Street.

Plans for the project include transforming the now-vacant, former Chase Bank building and adjacent parking lot into a cooperative market, seasonal outdoor market, and beer garden. The development is expected to enhance community gathering opportunities while strengthening the local food and beverage economy.

“We are excited at the opportunity to continue building upon the mission we put forward over 10 years ago, to create something unique and special in the area, further making Bridgman a destination for visitors, and expand what we offer and contribute to our local community,” Owner of Transient Artisan Ales, Chris Betts, said. “We look forward to investing in the area that has helped us grow and has supported our dream from day one.”

Pictured: Chris Betts, Transient Artisan Ales

Emma’s Hearth and Market Plans to Expand Through MDARD Support

Emma's Hearth and Market is also in the process of securing grant through MDARD’s Economic Development for Food & Agriculture Grant Fund Program for a significant expansion project.

Owner Steve Zieverink plans to purchase and expand the business’s current location at the intersection of Lake Street and Red Arrow Highway. This will allow for more indoor and outdoor seating, enhanced market and wine offerings, and will help support new specialty dining experiences for residents and visitors alike. Zieverink noted how the team also plans to expand and improve their outdoor growing area where they grow basil and other herbs for their culinary offerings.

“We’re really excited about this expansion project, " said Zieverink. “And this grant is really important in terms of the farm portion of what we do as it will allow us to build better infrastructure for growing.”

Pictured: Steve Zieverink, Emma's Hearth and Market

Greater Bridgman CGA Looking Ahead

These advancements reflect the type of growth and community-centered development that the BCGA actively supports and advocates for throughout the region. By helping local businesses access statewide resources and pursue long-term investments, the BCGA can continue to foster opportunities that strengthen Bridgman’s economy while enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors.

“The Greater Bridgman Area Chamber and Growth Alliance is grateful for the resources that MDARD has contributed to the economic health of our community,” said Nancy Kiernan, Director of the BCGA. “We will continue to find opportunities to grow our own businesses with the assistance of our valued partners.”

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About the Greater Bridgman Area Chamber and Growth Alliance: The Greater Bridgman Area Chamber & Growth Alliance (CGA) is a 501(c)3 organization with a mission to promote and grow the community through economic development in the City of Bridgman and Lake Charter Township.

About the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber: The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is a non-profit business advocacy and collective-impact organization serving Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties. Established in 1954, the Chamber works to strengthen regional assets, advocate for regional priorities, and cultivate an economic ecosystem that prepares the region for future opportunities.

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