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Comerica's Small Business of the Game: Empowering Local Entrepreneurs

As the seasons change and football fans flock to Ford Field, Comerica Bank is making important strides to support the local business community through its Small Business of the Game program. This initiative is designed to elevate small businesses during Detroit Lions home games, providing them with unique opportunities for exposure and growth. This year marks the seventh season of this impactful partnership, and the benefits have never been greater.

The Power of Partnership

Comerica Bank's collaboration with the Detroit Lions highlights the vital role small businesses play in fostering economic growth and community well-being. Each week throughout the NFL regular season, one business will be spotlighted, gaining access to a wide audience through varied media platforms—be it in-stadium, digital, social, or traditional. Small businesses have a chance to leverage this exposure to promote their brand, drawing attention from passionate football fans.

Meghan Storey, the Senior Vice President and Michigan Director of Small Business at Comerica Bank, underscores the importance of this initiative, stating, “Small businesses are crucial to the growth and prosperity of our communities. We are committed to supporting their journeys by providing valuable resources that help them succeed.”

The program not only adds to the excitement of game day but also commits to uplifting local entrepreneurs who contribute vastly to the local economy.

Resources Available

The benefits offered through the Comerica Small Business of the Game program are extensive. Participating businesses will enjoy:

• - In-stadium signage that showcases their brand to fans present at the games.
• - Social media posts from both Comerica and the Detroit Lions, amplifying their visibility.
• - Run of site (ROS) advertising on the Detroit Lions' official website.
• - A specially curated marketing asset that aligns with their business goals, whether it be an in-app push notification, an email advertisement, or a highly visible advertisement during the game.
• - Game tickets and pre-game field passes to connect with customers and prospects in a unique game-day atmosphere.

Mike Disner, the Chief Operating Officer of the Detroit Lions, also expressed pride in this partnership's longevity, stating, “We are very proud of the near decade-long impact we have made in partnership with Comerica to use our gameday platform to showcase these incredibly deserving community pillars.”

Highlighted Businesses

As the 2025 season kicks off, the spotlight falls on various local businesses within the Comerica Small Business of the Game program. The first honoree to be highlighted is Detroit Flex Defense, recognized for its expertise in custom hose, tube, and fitting solutions, effectively serving crucial industries such as aerospace and automotive.

Soon after, on October 20, the Lions will honor Evelyn's Midtown Kitchen as they celebrate National Women's Small Business Month. This cooking school in Detroit offers interactive culinary experiences ranging from private events to cooking classes that foster community engagement.

Other honorees this season include MCHS Family of Services, City Recycling Inc., Saber Building Services, Acorp Property Management, J.M. Sons Plumbing & Mechanical, and All Pro Property Solutions. Each of these businesses embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines Michigan's entrepreneurial landscape.

An Expanding Support Network

The Small Business of the Game program reflects Comerica's broader commitment to supporting small businesses. Complementing this effort, the Comerica SmallBiz Co-Op provides additional resources such as media buys, planning tools, and exclusive perks, all aimed at driving growth for small business owners. In 2025 alone, over 40 small businesses will benefit from enhanced resources and exposure through Comerica's various programs.

Comerica's commitment extends beyond promotional opportunities; it demonstrates a holistic approach to empowering entrepreneurs by fostering an environment of support and innovation.

In a recent move to bolster the entrepreneurial spirit, Comerica Bank announced a significant contribution of $250,000 aimed at supporting community organizations that are dedicated to the development and empowerment of small business owners. By partnering with institutions like TechTown, Comerica is paving the way towards a robust future for Michigan's small business ecosystem.

Conclusion

Through its Small Business of the Game program, Comerica Bank, in collaboration with the Detroit Lions, is not only delivering excitement to the football fans but is also nurturing vital local businesses that form the backbone of the community. As the partnership continues to evolve, it promises to create an enduring impact, driving economic growth and fostering community ties in Detroit. This season, as you cheer for the Lions, remember the empowering stories of the small businesses in the spotlight, each contributing to the city's vibrant tapestry.