Firefighting is a family tradition for David Peterson, who also proudly served. But when a medical condition cut his time on the front lines short, his deep-rooted passion didn’t fade. With a background in heavy-duty mechanics and 20 years of experience working with first responders, he found a new way to serve his community: forming Michigan Emergency Vehicles and Equipment, LLC, a business dedicated to ensuring the safety and reliability of emergency vehicles.

David and his wife Melissa saw an opportunity to start their own company, and although the idea was promising, they faced significant challenges in getting started. They knew they needed a solid plan to secure funding, and they wanted to do everything by the book. “We were trying to figure out how to do this all the proper way so we didn’t run into any legal issues,” David explains. “I wanted it to be right, so if anybody looks at us, there’s nothing to hide.”

The couple reached out to the Michigan SBDC and connected with Business Consultant Jamaal Ewing. Jamaal guided them through the crucial steps of business registration, strategic planning, financial forecasting, and securing capital. With Jamaal’s support, David and Melissa developed a comprehensive business plan and financial projections that helped them secure a significant SBA loan to launch their business. 

The process, which can often be daunting, was made significantly smoother with the Michigan SBDC’s help. “When we were working with our banker, we told him we’d been working with you guys, and his eyes got about this big,” Melissa said, motioning with her hands. “That pretty much makes it a guarantee to get the loan.”

They officially opened their doors in December 2024, creating three jobs. The business has since grown through word-of-mouth referrals, and within just a few months, it has secured steady work with eight fire departments and maintains a total fleet of 39 vehicles in Muskegon and Northern Ottawa counties.

For David and Melissa, their work is about more than just business; it’s about the safety of first responders and the communities they serve. “If a grocery delivery truck breaks down, you don’t get the convenience of having groceries delivered to your front door. If a firetruck breaks down, somebody could die,” David explains. “As heavy a responsibility as that is, I like to know that we’re the people making that a safe and reliable truck for fire fighters to make it where they need to be.”

“Thanks to the Michigan SBDC; your assistance, your knowledge, and your amazing commitment to helping small businesses helped us make this dream come true,” Melissa shared. The Michigan SBDC is proud to have helped David and Melissa build a business that not only fulfills their passion but also plays a vital role in keeping communities safe.