Small Business Association of Michigan Names 2026 Small Business Champion 

Amy Rencher of MEDC recognized for transforming small business support connections throughout the state

LANSING, MI – The Small Business Association of Michigan has honored Amy Rencher, SVP of Small Business and Talent at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), as its 2026 Champion of Small Business.

“Amy has transformed the MEDC’s approach to small business services and outreach,” said SBAM President and CEO Brian Calley. “She’s made it an organizational priority to dedicate intentional time and resources to small business supports, and built coalitions of service organizations that link Michigan’s small businesses throughout the state and community level.  Amy has connected this network of service providers through relationship building, creating an ecosystem that is helping more small businesses thrive throughout the state.” 

“Amy and the MEDC are steadfast partners in developing more tools for small businesses to access and setting a strong foundation for entrepreneurs working toward growth and sustainability. SBAM is lucky to have Amy listening and learning from small businesses.”
Rencher has led a portfolio of federal and state initiatives to support small business at the MEDC since July 2022. She regularly travels to meet with entrepreneurs throughout the state, and elevates their voice by taking their feedback to Lansing. Amy was also recently honored with the Future Leader Award from the International Economic Development Council due to her tireless efforts and body of work in her role at MEDC.

This is only the second time SBAM has designated a Small Business Champion Award, recognizing a member of state government who works diligently to improve the small business ecosystem within Michigan. The 2026 award was presented to Rencher on Thursday, June 18 during SBAM’s Annual Meeting in East Lansing.

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