Meet Our Inaugural Cohort

When we set out to launch the Women’s Entrepreneurial Fellowship, we knew we were looking for something special. We found it in our 2024-25 cohort – eleven remarkable women business owners who represent the diverse strength of Michigan’s entrepreneurial spirit.

Eleven Amazing Women

These leaders guide companies that span manufacturing, retail, hospitality, travel, professional services, and specialty industries. From machining and promotional products to music retail and pet services, from furniture restoration to specialized travel planning, each business brings a unique contribution to Michigan’s economy.

What sets this inaugural group apart is the diversity of their expertise combined with their shared commitment to growth and community impact. Selected from a competitive pool of applicants, these women demonstrated not only strong business fundamentals but also a genuine desire to grow alongside their peers.

Their businesses represent various regions across Michigan, contributing to both our state’s economic vitality and its unique character. Whether it’s preserving musical heritage through Elderly Instruments, innovating in manufacturing at Pioneer Machine and Technology, creating joyful experiences at Fido & Stitch and Groovy Donuts, or helping people connect through sports at Wolverine Pickleball, each company serves a distinct and valuable purpose in our community.

As our inaugural cohort, these fellows are setting the standard for future generations of the Women’s Entrepreneurial Fellowship. Through their participation, they’re not just growing their own businesses – they’re helping shape a program that will support Michigan’s women entrepreneurs for years to come.

We invite you to learn more about each of these remarkable business leaders and their companies below.

2024-2025 Cohort

Sharon McRill

The Betty Brigade

Taryn Sulkes

Eagle Specialties

Lillian Werbin

Elderly Instruments

Allison McDonough

Fido & Stitch

Monica Gauthier

Groovy Donuts

Jane Mitchell

Jungle Jane Promotions

Nancy Marshall

Marshall Holding Company
Aluminum Supply Co.
Marshall Sales Inc.

Diane Arnold

Neuco Furniture & Upholstery 

Deborah Harris​

Pioneer Machine and Technology, Inc

Heather Houtman

Winsome Travel Design

Christy Howden

Wolverine Pickleball