Biz License AEM - 1

Business Licensing Education Series

Clear guidance.
Stronger businesses.
Safer choices for consumers.

Licensing can be complicated; we’re here to make it simple. Our 2026 Business Licensing Educational Series is the latest chapter in our mission to Support, Educate, and Empower the Michigan community.

Program Overview:

Navigating Michigan's licensing requirements doesn’t have to be a headache. The BBB of Michigan Business Licensing Educational Series offers a series of sessions designed to clarify the law and promote best practices. Whether you join us for a live "deep dive" session or browse our library of on-demand articles and links, you’ll find practical advice tailored to the needs of Michigan’s business owners and the people who hire them.

A Note to Michigan Consumers: Why Licensing Matters to You

A license is more than just a permit. It’s a promise of safety, accountability, and professionalism. We believe you shouldn't have to play detective to find a qualified pro. This series reinforces the "why" behind the rules, showing how licensing protects your home, your family, and your wallet.

By educating our local businesses, we are working to ensure that when you see a BBB Accredited Business seal, you can move forward with complete peace of mind. Please Note: While the information shared benefits everyone, the live learning sessions are technical in nature and specifically designed for business audiences.

Consumer Resource Toolkit

Search our directory for BBB Rated and Accredited businesses in your area.

Use Michigan’s official database to check the status of a professional or business license.

Expert resources for home buying, remodeling, and maintenance.

Learn how to spot the red flags of common industry scams before they happen.

Designed with the Michigan Business Community in Mind

Whether you are a new entrepreneur starting from the ground up or you are a long-standing business operator looking for clear, simple guidance you can trust, this series is built for you.

We’ve designed this roadmap to help you professionalize your brand and protect your hard work. This series is specifically tailored for:

  • New & Growing Businesses: Set a solid foundation from day one.
  • Contractors & Tradespeople: Stay current on industry-specific state codes.
  • Expanding Enterprises: Navigate the shift as you add new, regulated services.
  • Future & Current BBB Accredited Businesses: Ensure your team stays compliant and maintains the high standards your customers expect.

The Value for Your Business:

Through expert-led education, you’ll gain a clear understanding of Michigan’s requirements, avoid common (and costly) misconceptions, and learn how proper licensing directly impacts your brand’s credibility and eligibility for BBB Accreditation.

Our Featured Partnership:

These sessions are led by the Licensing and Regulatory Affairs: Bureau of Construction Codes, (LARA-BCC). These experts provide a supportive, educational environment focused on helping you build a thriving company.

2026 Business Licensing Education Series Schedule

All events are held in person and livestreamed for your convenience.

What we’ll cover: Types of licensing required in Michigan for various contractors, common misconceptions, the consequences of operating without a license, and how compliance impacts BBB Accreditation.

BLS HVAC
HVAC Licensing, June 9, 2026, Grand Rapids Area

What we’ll cover: HVAC licensing standards, permit requirements, renewals, and compliance best practices. 

Registration opening soon
BLS BUILD
Building & Maintenance Licensing, September 15, 2026, Lansing Area

What we’ll cover: Residential builder requirements, the distinction between maintenance and construction licenses, and avoiding common compliance mistakes. 

Registration opening soon
BLS PLUMING AND ELECTRICAL
Plumbing & Electrical Licensing, November 17, 2026, Flint Area

What we’ll cover: Specialized licensing pathways, the apprentice-to-master journey, and critical consumer safety implications. 
Registration opening soon

Registration opening soon

Business Resource Toolkit

Stay ahead of industry trends and news.

Learn how to identify and avoid common business-targeted scams.

The official state resource for licenses and permits.

Understanding and leveraging BBB Accreditation.

Claim or add your business's free BBB Business Profile.

Comprehensive guides for managing every stage of your business.

Program Sponsors

BHS Insurance
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Fifth Third Bank

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

We'd like to thank our community partners for their support in promoting this important event:

Download our 2026 BBB of Michigan Media Kit

The Media Kit outlines upcoming events, partnerships, and visibility opportunities available through the Better Business Bureau of Michigan. Inside, you’ll find audience insights, customizable event sponsorship levels, and ways to align your brand with BBB’s trusted reputation. Use this guide to choose the package that best fits your goals, budget, and desired reach.

More BBB Educational Foundation Programs

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Trust Lab®

Trust Lab® measures trust and uses the data to create and support programs aimed at making Western Michigan the most trustworthy place in the United States to do business​.

bbb training courses
Webinars/Seminars/Training

The BBB Educational Foundation hosts webinars, seminars and training for businesses and nonprofits.

Torch award for ethics
Awards

Learn more about our annual Torch and Trust Awards and our Trust Scholarships and how you can apply.

donate
Donate

Make a tax-deductible donation to the BBB Educational Foundation to help support the free programming provided to local schools, seniors, community groups and businesses.