Starting a Small Business

As a way to promote and celebrate our new businesses, we offer free ribbon cuttings. Working with Township staff, we will select the best date to announce your opening to the community. If your ribbon cutting is held Monday - Friday between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, Township staff will take photos of the ceremony and share them on Meridian Township social media pages.

Grand Opening FAQs

Business Licenses

Meridian Township does not require a business operator to apply for business licensing with the Township. Businesses operating in the State of Michigan are required to obtain a license, and certain businesses must also obtain certification to obtain a license. The link above lists the required licenses for the State of Michigan.  

Liquor Licenses

Meridian Township establishments are permitted to sell wine & spirits as long as they have the correct zoning and receive an approved license from the State of Michigan. Quota licenses are granted by the State of Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)  with approval from the Township Board.

Interested parties should complete an application for a Liquor License and submit it to the Township Clerk for review. The Township Board authorizes final approval through a resolution. 

The Small Business Development Center at Lansing Community College is a great resource to launch your business. You can start by meeting with an advisor, creating a business plan, and finding a financing partner to help you start up. 

Visit Michigan's Business One Stop to learn about the business resources available through the State of Michigan. 

Meridian Township's Economic Development Department and Planning Department can speak with you about your business joining the community. Please call Neighborhoods and Economic Development Director, Amber Clark, at 517.853.4568 for more information.