Small Business Owner Advocates

What is SBOA?

The Small Business Owner Advocates is a dedicated group of small and mid-sized Detroit business owners charged with utilizing their experience to inform the work of DMB and help the coalition keep business owner perspectives at the core of what we do. This group has been carefully selected to reflect the rich diversity of Detroit’s small business community, and to bring solutions-oriented owners together to support one another as well as business owners at large.

SBOA Fellowship

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Thank you for your interest in the SBOA Fellowship, a ten-month program focused on elevating the power and the platform of Detroit's small business owners. The ideal candidate for the SBOA Fellowship is a Detroit-based entrepreneur who has an established, revenue-generating business and can allocate time from their schedule to help improve our business community. This experience will help business owners give back to their business community in a tangible way. Below is an overview of the SBOA Fellowship. If it is a good fit for you at this time, we encourage you to apply. Please reserve 60 to 75 minutes to complete the application.

Program Objectives

SBOA Fellows learn how to advocate as changemakers
SBOA Fellows create a better business community in Detroit
SBOA Fellows are better positioned to represent their industry and their district

Benefits for Fellows

Refine leadership skills
Build their legacy with a tangible contribution
Network with other successful business owners
Leverage a platform for their voice
Receive mentoring to help achieve their next level

Fellow Qualifications

Over 18 years old
Full time, for-profit, LARA-registered business owner with at least one employee or contractor other than themselves
Detroit-based
In business for at least three years
Revenue-generating, with at least the immediate past two quarters of positive cash flow
Fully completed application

2023 SBOA Fellowship Informational

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Time Commitment

SBOA Fellowship sessions are scheduled for the following dates. They will be in-person from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at Detroit-based locations to be determined. Sessions may be held virtually if required by adverse health or weather conditions. August 14, 2023 September 11, 2023 October 16, 2023 November 13, 2023 December 11, 2023 January 8, 2024 February 12, 2024 March 11, 2024 April 8, 2024 Fellows should also plan to attend the DMB Summit, tentatively scheduled for Monday, May 6, 2024. These dates are subject to change. SBOA Fellows will be notified in advance of any changes. Participants must attend seven of nine sessions to successfully complete the Fellowship. More than two absences may result in participants' dismissal from the Fellowship and disqualification from participation in future SBOA Fellow cohorts. SBOA Fellows will be matched with mentors and are expected to meet with them monthly from October 2023 through April 2024. No meeting is expected in December 2023. Meetings will be about one hour. Fellows should allocate one hour monthly to follow up on any actions from meeting with mentors. More than two missed mentor meetings may result in participants' dismissal from the Fellowship and disqualification from participation in future SBOA Fellow cohorts.

Small Business Owner Advocate (SBOA) Fellowship Application

Apply by June 2, 2023 at 11:59 pm

Apply

Mon, Apr 22
District 3 and 4 Business Resource Fair
Ford Resource & Engagement Center
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Apr 22, 2024, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Ford Resource & Engagement Center, Maddelein St, Detroit, MI 48205, USA
Mon, Apr 22
Business Thrive: Capital Series - Financial Planning
ACCESS
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Apr 22, 2024, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
ACCESS, 6451 Schaefer Rd, Dearborn, MI 48126, USA
Mon, Apr 22
The 2024 NFL Draft Marketing Playbook Series
Google Detroit
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Apr 22, 2024, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Google Detroit, 52 Henry St, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
Tue, Apr 23
Writing a Business Plan - In Person Event
Schoolcraft College
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Apr 23, 2024, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Schoolcraft College, 18600 Haggerty Rd, Livonia, MI 48152, USA
Wed, Apr 24
Choosing the Right Payment Processors for your Business
Webinar
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Apr 24, 2024, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Webinar
Thu, Apr 25
Arab American Small Business Celebration
Arab American National Museum
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Apr 25, 2024, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Arab American National Museum, 13624 Michigan Ave, Dearborn, MI 48126, USA
Thu, Apr 25
Corktown Block Party
1620 Michigan Ave suite 123, Detroit, MI 48216, USA
Multiple Dates
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Apr 25, 2024, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
1620 Michigan Ave suite 123, Detroit, MI 48216, USA
Thu, Apr 25
Family Business Succession Planning in Michigan
Webinar
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Apr 25, 2024, 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Webinar
Thu, Apr 25
Fantazma Market & Cafe Draft Pop-Up Weekend
Fantazma Market & Cafe
Multiple Dates
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Apr 25, 2024, 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Fantazma Market & Cafe, 1211 Trumbull, Detroit, MI 48216, USA
Mon, Apr 29
Business Thrive: Capital Series - Access to Capital
ACCESS
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Apr 29, 2024, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
ACCESS, 6451 Schaefer Rd, Dearborn, MI 48126, USA
Mon, Apr 29
Small Business Corridor Compliance Education Series - District 7
Adams Butzel Ceter
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Apr 29, 2024, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Adams Butzel Ceter, 10500 Lyndon St, Detroit, MI 48238, USA
Tue, Apr 30
Understanding Your Small Business Customer: The Value Proposition Canvas
Schoolcraft College
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Apr 30, 2024, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Schoolcraft College, 18600 Haggerty Rd, Livonia, MI 48152, USA
Tue, Apr 30
Financial Literacy - Understanding How to Budget
Westland Public Library
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Apr 30, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Westland Public Library, 6123 Central City Pkwy, Westland, MI 48185, USA
Tue, Apr 30
Small Business Marketing (Score Small Business Series)
Plymouth District Library
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Apr 30, 2024, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Plymouth District Library, 223 S Main St, Plymouth, MI 48170, USA
Mon, May 06
DMB Annual Summit
Cambria Hotel
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May 06, 2024, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Cambria Hotel, 600 W Lafayette Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

SBOA II

Nezaa Bandele

Paradise Natural Food

SBOA II Fellow

Nezaa Bandele, a dedicated Natural Food Chef and Community Health Educator is deeply passionate about empowering communities through food and small business development. Her involvement in various small business programs and cohorts showcases her commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship. Nezaa's recognition, including the esteemed Small Business Hero Award from ProsperUs, highlights her prowess in securing technical assistance and funding for entrepreneurs. As a Hatch alumni and proactive participant in pitch competitions, she actively seeks funding for her business and supports others in their funding endeavors. Being an immigrant with a diverse background, Nezaa excels in connecting with different cultures, emphasizing inclusivity and collaboration. As Small Business Resource and Programming Manager for Live6 Alliance, Nezaa focuses on fostering growth in the 6 Mile and Livernois business corridor, contributing to the revitalization of communities by supporting businesses and aiding in their pandemic recovery efforts. Her expertise and dedication to healthy living promotion, small business advocacy, and community resilience make her a valuable asset in community development initiatives.

Robyn Childers

Welcome Home Yoga & Wellness

SBOA II Fellow

Robyn Childers, Co-founder/Owner of Welcome Home Yoga & Wellness, is a multi-talented entrepreneur with extensive experience in advanced performance movement arts. Together with wife, Melissa, they established Detroit's first LGBTQ+ inclusive yoga studio and wellness center. Welcome Home Yoga & Wellness offers diverse classes, wellness services, and retail and prioritizes accessibility for underserved communities. Robyn, a Wayne State University alumna, received the 2023 Small Business of the Year Award. Besides teaching, mentoring, and speaking engagements, Robyn is actively involved in community service, serves on boards, and volunteers with various organizations. Robyn enjoys vegan cooking, marathon training, and adventures with Melissa and their dogs in her free time.

Cathryn Coleman

Bouncing Around The Motor City

SBOA II Fellow

Cathryn Coleman, one of Detroit's hardest-working mompreneurs, is a highly accomplished business owner and CEO with a background in balloon art and a strong business education. She has won prestigious grants and awards for her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to her community. As the first African American and female-owned balloon business in Detroit, Cathryn has made significant strides in the industry. Her commitment to continued learning and growth is evident through her completion of various entrepreneurial programs. Cathryn's passion for balloon art and dedication to her business are truly inspiring, showcasing her creativity, hard work, and commitment to making dreams come to life.

Jonathan Farley

Accesspoint Transport

SBOA II Fellow

Jonathan Farley, the owner of Accesspoint Transport, has been a pillar in the Detroit-Metro Area for nearly a decade. Besides offering top-notch towing services, he leads the Accesspoint 2 Stability program, providing mentorship to the youth in Detroit. Family-oriented, Jonathan enjoys exploring diverse cultures with his wife and children. He is actively involved in his community and serves as a Deacon at New St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church oversees initiatives like Forgotten Harvest food distribution and the S.M.A.S.H. Men's Ministry. Access Point Towing, under his guidance, prioritizes building solid relationships with clients and excels in personalized private property towing services, catering to vehicles of all sizes.

Joaquin Oyuela Macovi

Huapi

SBOA II Fellow

Joaquín Oyuela and his family established their business, Huapi, in Detroit. Drawn by the city's growth prospects and vibrant history, they saw Detroit as an ideal location to launch their ventures. Managing investments and property searches from Argentina and Detroit, they ventured into real estate and property management services. By 2019, they expanded into dumpster services and have since completed over 400 projects in Detroit. Committed to enhancing the city's development, Huapi aims to bring quality and innovative design to the community as they grow and thrive within Detroit's evolving landscape.

Jasmine Royster

Trap Vegan

SBOA II Fellow

Jas, the owner of Trap Vegan and ACK Property Investments, hails from the west side of Detroit, MI. With a deep passion for food and healthy eating, she advocates for access to nutritious options in her beloved city. Jas prioritizes maintaining a healthy lifestyle and believes in providing healthy choices even when on the go. Detroit holds a special place in her heart and is committed to promoting wellness and food consciousness within the community she calls home.

Tonja Stapleton

Parkstone Development Partners

SBOA II Fellow

Tonja Stapleton boasts an impressive 25-year career in development since getting her degree in Urban Planning from Michigan State University. She has served municipalities in Illinois and Michigan, excelling in transportation, site planning, zoning, and code administration. Her firm, Parkstone Development Partners, focuses on land use entitlements, code interpretation, and business licensing. Tonja has shared her expertise through teaching and actively contributed to city government, aiding in vital ordinance revisions. Currently, she collaborates on multiple development projects and aids numerous businesses in establishing roots in Detroit. As a dedicated professional, she seeks to empower entrepreneurs through workshops and technical assistance, showcasing her commitment to the community and her industry.

Previous Cohort

Jerome Brown

Detroit Soul

District 3 & 4

Jerome B. Brown the eldest of his siblings is a long-life resident of Detroit raised by his parents who instilled work ethics and community minded service. He's a role model for young people and loves spending time with family and traveling with his wife. Brown is the co-owner of Detroit Soul restaurant serving soul food in the neighborhood providing a third place for residents, employment and community support.

Ashley Carpenter-Logan

Klassic Mobile Gardens

District 4

Ashley Carpenter-Logan, Visionary, owner of Detroit Kollaborative, Klassic Mobile Gardens llc and Native of the beautiful city of Detroit. Tunnel vision in tune with neighborhood development without displacement. Creating change in underserved areas around the city one garden, one building, one block at a time.

Lester Gouvia

Norma G's

District 4

Lester Gouvia is a Trinidad and Tobago native who immigrated to the United States with his family later in life. After working a corporate job for 25 years, the company downsized and this opened the opportunity for Lester to pursue his true passion. With the support of his family, he opened his food truck in 2015. The overwhelmingly positive response of his clientele inspired him to open a brick and mortar. Through groups like Green Garage, FoodLab, ProsperUS, Hatch, and Techtown - he was supported in expanding into this new venture. Today, Norma G's is the first sit-down, full-service restaurant to open in the Jefferson-Chalmers neighborhood in 30 years.

Nefertiti Harris

Textures by Nefertiti

District 5

Nefertiti Harris, the owner of Textures by Nefertiti salon and Mami Wata hair products, views herself as a lifestyle/spiritual coach to individuals who are ready for the process of creating a beginning for themselves as they embrace their natural hair.

Ping Ho

The Royce, Marrow

District 5

Ping Ho is the founder of The Royce and Marrow, and a co-founder in Mink. The Royce was named a top 10 wine shop in the nation by Vinepair in 2018 and one of the Top 50 Retailers in 2020 by Wine Enthusiast magazine. Marrow launched in October 2018 and has been recognized by national publications and groups including Eater, Food & Wine Magazine and the James Beard Foundation for its excellence. Ping graduated Magna Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Brown University and holds an M.B.A. from Columbia Business School.

Danielle North

Kidz Kingdom

District 1

Danielle North is a wife, mother of three, long-distance runner, children’s book author and serial entrepreneur. Danielle has successfully launched several initiatives: Kidz Kingdom - Detroit’s first indoor playground which is also a licensed childcare center, Degree Forward - a college completion program, Detroit Women’s Leadership Network - a local group of over 10,000 women and Biz Kidz - a youth entrepreneurship summer camp. Danielle has received numerous awards for her advocacy and commitment to children, women, diversity, equity and inclusion.

Juan Carlos Dueweke-Perez

Featherstone Agency

District 5 & 6

Juan Carlos Dueweke-Pérez is an immigrant, social entrepreneur, photographer, and futurist. He is driven by social behavior, interpersonal connection, equity, and transparency. His work has developed through his company, Featherstone, from content development to public relationships for POC-owned businesses and believes his biggest impact is providing trust and resourcefulness.

Stella Safari

Zapenda

Stella Safari is the founder and CEO of Zapenda, a manufacturer of African-inspired clothing and accessories in her home country - The Democratic Republic of Congo. Stella immigrated from Congo at a young age due to political instability and arrived in America not speaking a word of English. She went on to earn a degree in mathematics and women’s studies from Dartmouth College. Her passion for entrepreneurship and community development led her to Detroit where she began her career as a Venture for America Fellow with Invest Detroit. Later on, she launched and ran the gBETA program, a free accelerator for Detroit-based companies looking to scale. Stella’s work has impacted over 100 companies in Southeast Michigan and beyond. Her experiences in Detroit has led her back to her home in Congo where she employs skilled tailors who are also survivors of the war. She has been featured on Crain’s 20 in their 20s list and is a recipient of the Joyce Ivy Foundation Woman of Impact Award.

Tanya Saldivar-Ali

AGI Construction

District 6

Tanya Saldivar-Ali is the co-founder and Business Development Director of AGI Construction. She is a native Southwest Detroiter with over twenty years of experience as a credible and strong Detroit community leader that has advocated for inclusiveness, employment, and quality educational opportunities for Detroiters and at-risk populations. Her professional skill set varies from corporate administration and fund development responsibilities within a manufacturing, corporate banking, and nonprofit setting.

Dawn Sanford

Shears and Shaves

District 2

Dawn Sanford is the founder and owner of Shears and Shaves Salon and Spa on the Avenue of Fashion. With over 25 years of experience, she continues to use her talents as a Master Barber to serve the Detroit community.

Latricia Wilder

Vibe Ride

District 5

Latricia Wilder is an entrepreneur, investor, marketing and advertising expert, and public speaker, with a passion for curating ‘positive vibe” experiences globally. Through her company, Love Yourself LLC, her mission is to empower individuals to live their best lives by creating opportunities for them to have access to the tools, education, and resources needed to assist in achieving that goal both personally and professionally. Her first major endeavor, Vibe Ride Detroit, has combined the upscale equipment, technology, benefits, and presentation of high-end boutique fitness facilities with a price point that enables everyday “working” class individuals to enjoy. In building a business that is empowering and inclusive, Latricia applies her experience and acumen to purpose, spreading the importance of health and wellness to areas that can, and have been overlooked in the past, and to individuals that deserve training, quality and excellence in addition to affordability.