When Edward and Heather Jolma relocated to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan from Montana, they recognized a gap in their new home community of Hancock, Michigan. While metal roofing and siding were available, they were not manufactured locally. This led to frustratingly long lead times and limited choices for both contractors and homeowners.

Inspired by a family mentor in Montana with a similar metal manufacturing business, the Jolmas saw an opportunity to address this community need by creating a local manufacturing operation to convert raw metal into finished roofing, siding and trim ready for installation. Having already worked in contracting, the Jolmas knew they had the experience they needed to manage a business. They needed a solid plan and local connections, however, to turn the idea into reality.

Their banker, Devin Kero at Superior National Bank, referred the Jolmas to the Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Upper Peninsula Region office. Their Michigan SBDC business consultant Daniel Yoder helped them develop a strong plan using market research, LivePlan business planning and forecasting software, and direct referrals to local organizations. “Absolutely without a doubt, the business plan that the Michigan SBDC helped us create got us the financing we needed. Knowing that they were on board with us helped the bank make its decisions.”

Edward and Heather also credit their momentum to the many other people and organizations that have supported them along the way, including:

• Jeff Ratcliffe and Sam Stonelake at the Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance (KEDA), Devin Kero at Superior National Bank and the Houghton County Board of Commissioners for financing support.
• Katie Schlief at the Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce for local connections and visibility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
• Ryan Galerneau with the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC) for guidance in manufacturing efficiency and automation.
• Nathan Sturos of Sturos CPA for expert financial guidance.
• Leo Isleib with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) for connections and education on state capital access programs.

Edward and Heather opened their doors in August 2023 at a temporary location, and in December 2024 moved to a larger facility on US-41 in Hancock. In addition to eliminating long lead times for their clients, their specialized manufacturing equipment has expanded choices for customers, including increasingly popular board and batten panels and a mobile roll former that can create up to 15 different metal profiles on-site. Their customers are grateful to have a local, accessible manufacturer they can visit and talk to directly.

A word from Edward and Heather for other budding entrepreneurs? “Keep going! There will be mistakes. Learn from them, and don’t dwell on them. Do research, but also take a chance. No amount of research replaces taking a step. Whenever a challenge comes up, your brain will adapt to it.”

Looking ahead, the Jolmas’ priorities are to increase their square footage, invest in another folding machine, expand their team with new employees and continue to grow their manufacturing operation to meet the demand for their locally-made construction products. Learn more about Peak Metal Roofing Products LLC on their website.