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Transworld Business Advisors of Grand Rapids | Lansing Named Michigan Microbusiness of The Year
Award celebrates franchisee Jessica Starks' leadership, customer focus, and commitment to Michigan's small business community.

Transworld Business Advisors of Grand Rapids | Lansing, led by local entrepreneur Jessica Starks, has been named the 2025 Michigan Micro Business of the Year by Michigan Celebrates Small Business (MCSB), a premier statewide recognition honoring outstanding small businesses that are making a significant local impact.
Selected from hundreds of nominations across the state, the Grand Rapids | Lansing office of Transworld Business Advisors earned this recognition for its commitment to empowering Michigan entrepreneurs, fostering a positive workplace culture, and actively contributing to the growth and vitality of its surrounding communities.
“Receiving this award is an incredible honor,” said Starks, President and Owner. “Our team is passionate about helping small business owners take the next step—whether that means selling a company they’ve built from the ground up or taking the leap into business ownership for the first time. We’re proud to play a small part in the success stories unfolding in Grand Rapids, Lansing, and beyond.”
Find out what's happening in Grand Rapidsfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The Micro Business of the Year award is given annually to a Michigan-based business with fewer than 10 employees or less than $500,000 in revenue that demonstrates excellence in employee culture, customer satisfaction, and community engagement. Honorees are also recognized for their resilience in navigating market challenges and their contributions to the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Starks and her team were celebrated at the 2025 Michigan Celebrates Small Business Gala held in East Lansing on April 22nd, which brought together business leaders, elected officials, and economic development partners to spotlight the most dynamic and impactful small businesses across Michigan.
Find out what's happening in Grand Rapidsfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Transworld Business Advisors is the largest business brokerage franchise in the world, specializing in business sales, mergers and acquisitions, and franchise consulting. With more than 250 offices worldwide, Transworld has been a leading force in small- and mid-market business transactions for over 40 years. The Grand Rapids | Lansing office exemplifies the brand’s mission of supporting entrepreneurs through every stage of business ownership.
For more information about Transworld Grand Rapids | Lansing, please visit https://www.tworld.com/locations/michigan/grand-rapids-and-lansing/.
About Transworld Business Advisors
Transworld Business Advisors® (TBA) is among the United Franchise Group™ (UFG) family of affiliated brands. With over 40 years of business brokerage experience, Transworld Business Advisors is in the business of helping buyers and sellers connect, conducting franchise consultations, and supporting franchise development. The company represents acquisition-minded corporations or individuals interested in owning their own company or franchise. From business brokerage to mergers and acquisitions, Transworld Business Advisors are business sale specialists that represent numerous listings across multiple industries. For more information about Transworld visit www.tworld.com and for information on owning a Transworld franchise, visit www.tworldfranchise.com.