How Walsh Service Solutions Made It in Michigan

When it comes to business success stories, Walsh Service Solutions stands as a prime example of finding growth and opportunity in Michigan. This Tribally owned and service-disabled veteran-owned business is deeply rooted in the state’s business ecosystem, providing contracting services across corporate, commercial and government industries. Recently relocating to Sault Ste. Marie from the Kalamazoo Area, Walsh Service Solutions represents more than just a business; its work is a catalyst for regional economic development and social transformation, driving middle-class growth and empowering communities throughout Michigan.

Walsh Service Solutions opened its doors in 2019 2017, and is owned by partners Rich, Dan, and Walter Walsh. Together, the team leveraged their extensive contacts and secured numerous opportunities and projects in Michigan. “Our growth is attributed to the relationships we’ve built here in Michigan,” said Rich Walsh. “We have the unique knowledge of growing up in the Upper Peninsula, and we’re good listeners who want to add value to our customers. We don’t ask people ‘what can we do for you?’ Instead, we ask ‘how can we support you?’” Michigan’s centralize location and supporting infrastructure made it a great place for this organization to do business, including critical projects at the Soo Locks to maintain traffic on commercial waterways. 

The company attributes much of its early success to its partnership with the APEX Accelerators (formerly known as Procurement Technical Assistance Centers), which are funded through the U.S. Defense Logistics Agency, Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and local economic partners. APEX Accelerators assist companies with support and a range of services that cover the entire procurement process, from initial certifications to final contracts. “When we first started up, Southwest Michigan APEX Accelerators were a significant resource in helping us establish and expand our business,” said Rich Walsh. “Their expertise and guidance allowed for smooth transitions as we got things going.” 

In order to grow and sustain, Walsh Service Solutions turned to the opportunities that the state could provide. Most notably, Michigan’s business environment has been a major driver in the company’s expansion. “I used to always be on the road traveling for work, but with the recent opportunities popping up right here in our backyard, I’ve been able to enjoy the beautiful state and work right at home,” said Dan Walsh, a member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. 

Dan Walsh’s experience isn’t wholly unique. Thanks to the Make It in Michigan initiative, a comprehensive strategy prioritizing investment in people, places and projects to build a brighter future in Michigan, there continues to be opportunities in the state for companies like Walsh Service Solutions. This initiative, alongside the efforts of the MEDC, is securing billions of dollars in projects from both in-state companies investing in Michigan and those looking to expand or relocate to the state. As Michigan’s economic development strategy evolves, it continues to draw new jobs and projects, amplifying Michigan’s appeal as a business hub. 

At the core of Walsh Service Solutions is its commitment to providing stable, good-paying employment opportunities that contribute to the growth of the middle class. By focusing on building strong, long-lasting relationships and engaging with the community, Walsh Service Solutions uplifts and empowers Michigan families, helping build economic stability within communities across the state. Most recently, Walsh Service Solutions introduced full benefits for its employees, reinforcing its dedication to workforce development. “We wanted to not only attract new talent but retain quality people in our company, and ultimately support them and their families,” said Walter Walsh, a member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians.

Walsh Service Solutions serves as a model for other companies, demonstrating how to leverage the state’s business ecosystem and resources. By leveraging established relationships, forging new partnerships and utilizing the programs offered through the state, the company is not only achieving business success but also making a significant impact on the community and Michigan’s workforce. Walsh Service Solutions is a powerful example of how businesses of all sizes and scope can truly Make It in Michigan.

Walsh Service Solutions serves as a model for other companies, demonstrating how to leverage the state’s business ecosystem and resources. By leveraging established relationships, forging new partnerships and utilizing the programs offered through the state, the company is not only achieving business success but also making a significant impact on the community and Michigan’s workforce. Walsh Service Solutions is a powerful example of how businesses of all sizes and scope can truly Make It in Michigan.