Local gourmet chocolatier to speak at next Entrepreneurship Forum

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The co-owner of a family-owned gourmet chocolate shop will be the next speaker at the Entrepreneurship Forum speaker series at Western Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business.

Steve Laham of Chocolates by Grimaldi will speak at 8 a.m. Friday, March 18, in 2150 Schneider Hall. The event is free and open to the public and begins with breakfast at 7:30 a.m. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (269) 387-6059 or at wmich.edu/business/e-rsvp. Free parking is available at Schneider Hall in Lot 72R.

Chocolates by Grimaldi

Located in Grand Haven, Chocolates by Grimaldi is a local, family-owned business specializing in handcrafted gourmet chocolates and chocolate gifts. Established in 2012 by Steve and Molli Laham, the company focuses on using fewer than five ingredients and often uses Michigan-made ingredients. The company avoids using artificial ingredients, preservatives or waxes in their products. Chocolates by Grimaldi candies are made onsite in an exhibition production area, with vintage and custom-made machinery. The company provides factory tours, teaching visitors more about the history of chocolate and candy production.

About the Entrepreneurship Forum

The Entrepreneurship Forum is a monthly series hosted by WMU’s Haworth College of Business designed to bring stories of entrepreneurial success to the greater Kalamazoo community. The series is devoted to entrepreneurs and unique stories of startup success. To learn more about the series, visit wmich.edu/business/entrepreneurship-forum.

Future Entrepreneurship Forum Speakers

• April 15: Susan Sonday, Emerald eCycling

For more information or to RSVP, contact Caitlin Smith at (269) 387-6059 or register at wmich.edu/business/e-rsvp. To suggest an entrepreneur who should be considered for the series, contact Stacey Markin at @email.

For more news, arts and events, visit wmich.edu/news.