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Milinda Ysasi

Milinda Ysasi is the CEO of GROW (Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women). For more than 30 years, GROW has been working with thousands of entrepreneurs. As a community development financial institution, they provide lending and technical assistance for those who have been left out of traditional lending. GROW is one of only 110 certified Women's Business Centers in the nation, and one of three in the State of Michigan, all in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration. She previously led The SOURCE, an organization focused on reducing employment barriers and creating opportunities for mobility for employees that work for their partner organizations. Prior to The SOURCE, Milinda worked in human resources at Cascade Engineering, Herman Miller and Spectrum Health. In November 2019, Milinda was elected to serve as a City Commissioner for the 2nd Ward of the Grand Rapids. Milinda is a co-founder of the Latina Network of West Michigan, an organic collective focused on changing the Latina narrative in the region. She was a 2018 Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Job Quality Fellow. Milinda serves on the Chemical Bank West Michigan community board and the West Michigan Works! legislative committee. Milinda has been recognized for her commitment and leadership with the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce ATHENA Young Professional award, the GVSU Alumni Service award, GR Business Journal 40 under forty, Young Nonprofit Professionals Network-GR DoGooder and Exemplary Executive awards, GR Business Journal 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan and as one of 200 Most Powerful Business Leaders in West Michigan.