At Grow Business Today, their mission is to foster unity and celebrate diverse cultures within the business community. We believe that by bringing people together and honoring their unique backgrounds, we can create a more inclusive and prosperous environment for all.
Our founder and Chief Growth Officer, Stephanie Kolakowski, embodies this commitment through her personal journey and professional endeavors. Growing up in Kalamazoo, Michigan, as the granddaughter of Italian immigrants Florence Emma (Sangalli) DalPonte and Chet DalPonte, Stephanie was instilled with the values of faith, family, and service. These principles have deeply influenced her approach to business and community engagement.
Stephanie’s Italian upbringing emphasized the importance of community and cultural celebration. This heritage inspired her to create spaces where businesses can thrive while honoring their unique cultural identities. Through Grow Business Today, she has developed programs and initiatives that not only drive business growth but also promote cultural awareness and inclusivity.
One such initiative is our collaboration with the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) to empower women-owned businesses. By facilitating WBENC certification, we help women entrepreneurs access a vast network of support, including targeted business opportunities, educational programs, and networking events. This initiative reflects our dedication to celebrating diversity and fostering inclusive growth within the business community.
Additionally, Stephanie’s involvement with various community organizations, such as West Michigan Italian cultural Center (Founding partner) West Michigan Italian Festival, Other Way Ministries and Safe Haven Ministries, underscores her commitment to service and cultural celebration. By partnering with these organizations, Grow Business Today actively contributes to initiatives that uplift diverse communities and promote cultural understanding.
At Grow Business Today, we recognize that our strength lies in our diversity. By honoring the cultural backgrounds of our clients and community members, we aim to build bridges that connect people, foster understanding, and drive collective success. Stephanie’s Italian heritage serves as a guiding light in our mission to celebrate culture and bring people together in the pursuit of business excellence.
