Cityâs micro-local business program improves equity in river restoration Courtesy city of Grand Rapids Since the city of Grand Rapids launched its Micro-Local Business Enterprise (MLBE) registration program in July 2020, the program has proven successful in creating a more equitable pool of businesses seeking Grand River (Owashtanong) restoration contracts. The MLBE program currently has 77 total companies across 34 industries including construction, landscaping and tourism. The newly registered businesses account for a 57% increase since July. Many of the businesses are minority- and woman-owned. The programâs primary goals include: Ensuring future restoration of the Grand River embeds racial and economic equity principles in the water and along the riverbanks