BRIGHTON, Mich., Oct. 9, 2025—Lake Trust Credit Union (Lake Trust), a community-based credit union serving nearly 200,000 members and businesses throughout Michigan, announced today that two of its small business members have been selected as recipients of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis’(FHLBank) Elevate Small Business Grant Program. Detroit-based and locally-owned, Bleu Bowtique and Craig’s Coffee were each awarded $10,000 in small business grants to help take their business to the next level.
“At Lake Trust, we believe in the power of small businesses - they are at the heart of every community. Small businesses not only fuel economic growth but bring vibrancy and energy to our neighborhoods, creating places where people want to live, work and play,” said David Snodgrass, Lake Trust’s President and CEO. “Whether it's identifying the right financial solution to fuel their growth or connecting them to external resources, we work closely with our business members to chart a path toward their vision of success. It's a privilege to see two of our long-time members receive grants from the Elevate program.”
Now in its eighth year, the Elevate program supports small businesses across the FHLBank’s district of Michigan and Indiana, fostering growth and development with grants to fund projects such as facility expansions, equipment and technology upgrades, workforce development and more.
This year, FHLBank designated $3 million for the program and awarded Elevate grants to 53 small businesses in Michigan — two of which Lake Trust submitted applications for:
Bleu Bowtique
Bleu Bowtique is a distinguished men's clothier located in the heart of Downtown Detroit. Founded by style guru Ne'Gyle Beaman in 2013, the shop specializes in high-quality, limited-run fashion and unique, handcrafted bow ties. Bleu Bowtique's mission is to help every customer discover their individuality and boost their confidence through exceptional style. Learn more about Bleu Bowtique’s story.
Craig’s Coffee
Craig’s Coffee is a coffee bar and roastery located in Detroit’s Cass Corridor. Founded by Craig Batory, the business is dedicated to fresh-roasting high-quality coffee beans with care and passion. Committed to the local community, Craig’s Coffee is a hub that not only serves exceptional brews but also supports Detroit's entrepreneurial spirit. Learn more about Craig’s entrepreneurial journey.
Over the years, Lake Trust has supported members in their journey to launching and scaling their businesses by nominating them for FHLBank’s Elevate program. Members who have received the grant include Brighton Coffee House and Theater of Brighton, Hometown Bicycles of Brighton, Mr. Leslie’s Cheesecakes of Lansing, Rebel Nell of Detroit and The Hayes Institute (formerly Skinphorea) of Detroit.