Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Kekelik.
Karen, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Karen Kekelik’s journey is rooted in a passion for advocacy, education, and building meaningful community connections. She began her career in law, earning her Juris Doctor from Valparaiso University after completing her undergraduate studies in English at Grand Valley State University. Early on, Karen developed a strong interest in helping individuals navigate complex systems, which naturally led her toward work that blends legal expertise with community impact.
As the cannabis industry began to emerge in Michigan, Karen recognized both the opportunity and the responsibility that came with it. She saw a space that not only needed strong compliance and legal understanding, but also transparency, education, and thoughtful leadership. That vision helped shape the founding of IndiGrow, a vertically integrated cannabis microbusiness in Muskegon, where she serves as a co-owner and key strategic leader.
At IndiGrow, Karen has been instrumental in building a business centered on education and trust. From offering full facility tours to developing consumer resources and teaching courses in partnership with the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency, she has consistently worked to demystify cannabis and promote responsible use. Her efforts extend beyond the business itself—she is deeply involved in statewide advocacy, helping shape conversations around policy, sustainability, and consumer protection.
Karen’s leadership and impact have earned her recognition across Michigan, including being named an Outstanding Young Michigander. She remains actively engaged in organizations such as Rotary and Junior Chamber International, where she continues to champion community development and leadership.
Today, Karen’s work sits at the intersection of law, business, and public service. Whether she’s guiding a company, educating consumers, or contributing to policy discussions, her focus remains the same: creating systems that are fair, transparent, and beneficial to both individuals and the broader community.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like many entrepreneurs operating in an emerging industry, Karen has faced a number of significant hurdles along the way. The cannabis space, while full of opportunity, is also highly volatile—marked by shifting regulations, evolving compliance standards, and constant uncertainty. Navigating these challenges requires not only legal expertise, but also resilience and the ability to adapt quickly in an environment where the rules can change overnight.
Beyond the operational complexities, Karen has also encountered stigma and discrimination tied to working in the cannabis industry. Despite running a compliant, community-focused business, there are still lingering misconceptions that can impact everything from access to financial services to broader community acceptance. As both an attorney and a woman in a leadership role within this space, she has had to consistently prove credibility in rooms where cannabis—and those associated with it—are not always taken seriously.
There have also been personal challenges that come with building something from the ground up. The demands of entrepreneurship—long hours, financial pressure, and the weight of responsibility for employees and the community—can be intense. Balancing those pressures while maintaining a commitment to family, community involvement, and personal well-being has required intentional effort and perseverance.
Rather than deterring her, these hurdles have helped shape Karen’s approach to leadership. They’ve reinforced her commitment to transparency, fairness, and advocacy—not just for her own business, but for the broader industry and the people it serves. Each challenge has strengthened her resolve to create a more equitable and sustainable path forward for others entering the space.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
IndiGrow stands apart in the cannabis industry by rethinking what a cannabis business can and should be. As a vertically integrated microbusiness based in Muskegon, IndiGrow grows, processes, and sells its products all under one roof—allowing for an uncommon level of quality control, consistency, and transparency. Customers aren’t just purchasing a product; they’re able to see exactly where and how it was made.
What truly differentiates IndiGrow, however, is its commitment to education and community engagement. The company regularly offers full facility tours, giving guests a behind-the-scenes look at the cultivation process, processing lab, and retail environment. This level of openness helps break down stigma and builds trust with consumers, many of whom are still learning about cannabis. Beyond tours, IndiGrow provides written resources, hosts classes, and actively participates in public education initiatives to promote responsible and informed consumption.
IndiGrow also places a strong emphasis on consistency and craftsmanship. By operating as a small-scale, highly controlled facility, the team is able to focus on producing high-quality, reliable products—ensuring that customers have the same experience time and time again. This attention to detail extends to their approach to sustainability, where they’ve implemented practices aimed at reducing waste and improving energy efficiency, reinforcing their position as one of the most energy-efficient small-scale cannabis facilities in the country.
Equally important is IndiGrow’s role as a community hub. Through events, partnerships with local organizations, and initiatives like their onsite gathering space, “The Bowl,” the business has become more than just a retail location—it’s a place where people come together. This blend of transparency, education, quality, and community connection is what truly sets IndiGrow apart and continues to drive its impact.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
One of the most important things I’ve learned about mentorship and networking is that it works best when it’s approached with authenticity, not just intention. Early on, I stopped thinking about “finding a mentor” as a formal process and instead focused on building genuine relationships with people whose work I respected. Many of the most impactful mentors in my life didn’t start with a formal ask—they grew naturally out of conversations, shared interests, and mutual respect over time.
For me, getting involved in the community has been key. Organizations like Rotary and the Junior Chamber have been incredibly valuable, not just for networking, but for surrounding myself with people who are actively working to make a difference. Showing up consistently, volunteering, and contributing in meaningful ways tends to open doors much more effectively than simply trying to “connect” with people.
I’ve also found that asking thoughtful questions goes a long way. People are generally very willing to share their experiences if they feel that you’re genuinely interested and respectful of their time. Instead of asking someone to be a mentor outright, I’ve had more success asking for advice on a specific topic or challenge. Over time, those conversations can naturally evolve into deeper mentorship relationships.
Another piece of advice is to be willing to offer value, even early in your career. Networking isn’t just about what you can gain—it’s about what you can contribute. Whether it’s sharing information, making introductions, or simply being someone who follows through and shows up, those small actions build trust and credibility.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of staying connected. A quick follow-up message, a thank you, or checking in periodically can make a lasting impression. Relationships are built over time, and the people who have had the biggest impact on my journey are the ones I’ve stayed in touch with and continued to learn from along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://indigrowmi.com
- Instagram: @indigrowmi
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567346075456
- Twitter: indigrowmi
- Youtube: indigrowmi
