Jenn and Max Tendero, founders of Keep. A Cleaning Company, share how they built a cleaning business in Grand Rapids with a mission to provide a living wage and better working conditions for their team. In this interview, they break down how they approached building a service business with a strong focus on values and long-term impact.
They explain the challenges of starting a cleaning company with a different model, including hiring, pricing, and competing in an industry where low-cost labor is common. Jenn and Max also share how their mother-and-son partnership shaped their leadership style and decision-making.
On the operational side, they dive into hiring strategies, building a supportive team environment, and maintaining service quality while staying aligned with their mission. They also highlight how their approach to compensation and culture helps attract and retain the right people.
Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, this is a practical look at how to build a cleaning business that prioritizes both profitability and providing meaningful opportunities for workers.
About the Business
Keep. A Cleaning Company is a residential cleaning service based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, focused on providing professional home cleaning while prioritizing fair wages, strong company culture, and long-term sustainability.
Founded by Jenn and Max Tendero, the business was built around a mission to create better working conditions in the cleaning industry while delivering consistent, high-quality service.
Watch how Keep. A Cleaning Company is building a mission-driven cleaning business focused on providing a living wage.
