Givitas, a company we've highlighted previously on Cronicle for supporting reciprocity in professional networks through dedicated social media hubs, has recently launched a network that is designed exclusively for Michigan startups to give and receive requests for help and information. Givitas is a social network by Give & Take that is designed into hubs for specific work groups within companies or industries.

The idea is that people are more likely to have questions answered if they can ask them of colleagues quickly and privately within a trusted network online. Members can also accrue a sort of reputation points for being the most helpful members. We have joined a few Givitas networks over the past few years, and found that it offered a unique opportunity to network with and support new people we wouldn't otherwise have met.

At a time when small business owners are looking for resources to thrive through COVID-19 and asking for or offering all kinds of unprecedented help, we thought you might like to know of this new group that is just getting started this past month to support Michigan startups.

The Givitas Michigan Startup Network group can be found here. The landing page is open to sign up by invitation of having this link. You must be part of a Michigan startup or affiliated with one to join. We're hoping that in these quickly changing times for startups in the Great Lakes region, this will be another resource for you to find help or offer assistance to founders and small business owners building their networks.