“I don't expect myself to live forever but I think that the memory or whatever I build could be so arranged that the thought would go on forever. The only way that I can do it is by developing a foundation so the land and the property out here that I have will be dedicated to the foundation that they can help people and it will go on forever.” - Edward Lowe - Inventor of Kitty Litter. Edward Lowe invented Kitty Litter right here in Michigan. He literally and figuratively was responsible for bringing the cat indoors. Not only did he create a new product that solved a real problem, he invented a new industry worth billions today. He eventually sold his company for ~$200 million which is nearly $500 million today. Mr. Lowe grew up so poor his family burned corn cobs for heat and had no indoor toilet. But after the sale, me spent lavishly, acquiring 22 homes, a 72-foot yacht, a stable of quarter horses, a private railroad and an entire Michigan town. Mr. Lowe was a serial entrepreneur who secured 32 patents, 115 trademarks and 36 copyrights. But it was one of his last inventions, the Edward Lowe Foundation, that had a huge impact on my life. During his lifetime, Mr. Lowe noticed that there was ample support available for startup companies, as well as a wealth of resources for large, established corporations. However, he identified a significant gap in resources for what are now referred to as "Second Stage Entrepreneurs." These are companies that have successfully navigated the startup phase and possess both the capability and desire to continue growing. Typically, Second Stage companies employ between 10 and 99 people and generate annual revenues ranging from $1 million to $50 million. Importantly, Second Stage Entrepreneurs play a crucial role in job creation. For example, between 2005 and 2015, while second-stage companies made up only 17 percent of all U.S. businesses, they were responsible for generating over 37 percent of jobs and 36 percent of sales. The Edward Lowe Foundation was established in 1985 dedicated to two primary missions. * Supporting Entrepreneurship: The foundation aims to foster entrepreneurship by providing resources, education, and support to entrepreneurs, particularly those in the second-stage of business development. The foundation recognizes the importance of these businesses in driving economic growth and job creation. * Land Stewardship: The foundation is also dedicated to land stewardship and conservation. Edward Lowe and his wife, Darlene, were passionate about preserving natural habitats and wildlife. The foundation manages the land that was once the Lowes' residence, known as Big Rock Valley, as a natural preserve and uses it as a venue for leadership retreats and educational programs. Big Rock Valley (BRV), the Edward Lowe Foundation's property near Cassopolis, Michigan, spans over 2,000 acres and is some of the most beautiful property I have ever seen. The property features diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, prairies, and lakes, which support a rich array of plant and animal life. With its unique architectural elements and recreational opportunities, BRV offers a remarkable blend of natural splendor and conservation efforts. I am connected to the Edward Lowe Foundation in a couple ways. The first is that my wife Laken works there. Second is that I am a Second Stage Entrepreneur myself. Michigan Celebrates Small Business (MCSB) is the most prestigious small business awards program in the state of Michigan. The “50 Companies To Watch” award recognizes that 50 up and coming businesses in Michigan. I have been blessed to win this award twice. Once in 2005 with Liquid Web and again in 2023 with Saddleback BBQ. Winning this award granted me the great privilege to be invited to spend 3 days learning and growing at the Edward Lowe Foundation property. I’m embarrassed to admit that when we were invited in 2005 my exact words were “I’m not going to that hippy dip