​COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Nonprofit & Municipal Support

Lionbear Ventures works primarily with small to mid-sized municipalities and nonprofits to develop problem-based solutions. We offer full life cycle support to plan, fund and implement place-based projects and/or people-focused programs. Our ability to secure funding from state, federal, and philanthropic sources allows local governments to fund and implement solutions that benefit their local community.
Examples of past projects include:

• Community park development
• Creating housing-ready technical assistance programs and infrastructure
• Increasing recycling access
• Establishing revolving loan funds
• Rehabilitation of owner-occupied housing units.

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​REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT
MI Neighborhoods Grant Applications

Michigan State Housing Development Authority’s (MSHDA) MI Neighborhoods program blends state and federal resources to expand affordable rental and for-sale housing. Since the beginning of the program, Lionbear Ventures has guided clients through the full application process—preparing documentation, shaping development strategy, identifying partners, and ensuring your project is funding‑ready and shovel‑ready. ​

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​THIRD-PARTY GRANT ADMINISTRATION
Full Lifecycle Program Management

To ensure project implementation is successful, we continue to support our clients by offering comprehensive post-award third-party grant administration (TPA) services to municipalities, housing organizations, developers, and nonprofits. Our team specializes in HUD and MSHDA funded programs, including HCDF and CDBG in both urban and rural areas. 
Our approach is to work hand in hand with the client to provide any or all of these TPA services:

• Outreach & intake
• Contractor coordination
• Financial tracking & compliance
• Reporting & documentation
• Program closeout

We help community leadership to ensure programs run smoothly, meet regulatory standards, and create lasting community impact.  

​BUSINESS INNOVATION SERVICES
Small Business & Start-Up Support

Lionbear Ventures offers coaching and strategic advising to help small businesses and start‑ups become investment- and grant-ready. We collaborate with our vast network of incubators, accelerators, lenders, and nonprofits to build a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem across Michigan. Our diverse team empowers founders to move their ideas from concept to market and grow economic opportunities within their own communities.
Examples of industry focus areas include:

• Recycling and resource recovery
• Food and agriculture
• Mobility

Whether you're a rural entrepreneur or located in a core downtown district, Lionbear Ventures is here to help you grow.

​SUSTAINING SUPPORT
Consulting & Technical Assistance Services

Our consultants provide ongoing support tailored to your organization’s needs—whether you require advisory services, project-based assistance, or an extension of your team.
We offer expertise in:

• Grant writing and fund development
• Project planning and program development
• Project and program management
• Third party grant administration and compliance
• Strategic business and nonprofit advising
• Start‑up coaching
• Organizational strategic planning

No matter the size or stage of your project, we’re here to help you move it forward.