Grand Haven Main Street Downtown Development Authority is thrilled to  announce that Fortino’s has been selected to receive a Match on Main grant, as part of Governor  Whitmer’s statewide initiative unveiled in the July 2025 press release on Michigan Business. The  announcement details funding awarded through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s  Match on Main program, supporting small businesses in Michigan downtowns 

michiganbusiness.orgmiplace.org. 

The Match on Main program offers reimbursement grants of up to $25,000 to eligible businesses  located in Select or Master Level Michigan Main Street communities, designed to help with interior  improvements, fixtures, equipment, marketing, and activation of underutilized space miplace.org.  Governor Whitmer’s July announcement highlighted this round of support as part of Michigan’s broader  economic development strategy, aimed at strengthening local main streets across the state michiganbusiness.org. 

Fortino’s, a cherished Grand Haven institution with over a century of history, will use the grant to  support interior enhancements and equipment updates that align with the downtown vibrancy goals of  the Match on Main initiative. The award reinforces Fortino’s ongoing investment in the physical and  cultural fabric of downtown Grand Haven. 

When Kelly Larson acquired Fortino’s in 2015, she committed to preserving its legacy. Since then, she  has invested in renovating the upper-floor apartments into short-term rentals, fostering year-round  tourism and enriching the mix of downtown offerings. Every original detail in the store has been  preserved to honor its storied past. 

Beyond business operations, Kelly is deeply engaged in the community, supporting nonprofits, schools,  and major events like Wine About Winter, and serving on boards including the Chamber of Commerce  and the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation. She frequently contributes Fortino’s signature  roasted nuts and logistical support to local fundraisers and gatherings. 

This Match on Main award advances Fortino’s long-term plans and positions the business for continued  growth, while supporting Grand Haven’s downtown revitalization vision. It honors both tradition and  innovation, recognizing the importance of place-based investment and entrepreneurship. 

For more on the state’s Match on Main initiative, read the full governor’s announcement: michiganbusiness.org/press-releases/2025/07/match-on-main-grants