Jane VanDusen worked for a company that specialized in custom metal design and fabrication. She loved the work and was good at it, so when her company was sold, she decided to open her own business in this specialized B2B service area.

She opened Redford-based CMP Acquisitions in 2018. The business includes PMT Scientific, which builds equipment for hospitals, laboratories, and universities, and Detroit Architectural Metal, which provides metal design and fabrication for other businesses or organizations.
“We had an opportunity to build metal railings for an Ann Arbor high school,” VanDusen says. “But we didn’t have the equipment needed for the job.”

Through Michigan Women Forward, she purchased the equipment she needed to complete the school project. The equipment, she says, has allowed her to pursue other jobs and grow her business.

VanDusen says the experience of applying for a Michigan Women Forward small business loan had an extra bonus – besides the capital she received. “I liked Michigan Women Forward’s approach,” VanDusen says. “They guided me through a deep dive into my business, which gave us time to reflect on the company. It was very helpful.”