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DETROIT (September 29, 2023) — Detroit Means Business, a coalition of private, public and philanthropic partners committed to serving Detroit's small business sector, has announced a cohort of entrepreneurs tasked with addressing challenges facing small businesses in the city. Seven Detroit-based entrepreneurs have been selected to participate in the Small Business Owner Advocates (SBOA) Fellowship. Over the span of 10 months, fellows will collaborate to remedy an issue impacting small business owners. Their solution will then be presented at the 2023 Small Business Summit. The summit, hosted annually by DMB, offers entrepreneurs a platform to acquire concrete skills essential for elevating their businesses. “The SBOA Fellowship represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to uplift Detroit's small business community. By engaging with the fellowship, business owners are poised to play a pivotal role in driving sustainable growth and innovation within Detroit’s small business ecosystem," said DMB President Dr. Marlo Rencher. “We believe that by harnessing the expertise and experiences of local entrepreneurs, we can drive positive change and foster a more prosperous business environment for all.” Fellows will engage in a robust curriculum to develop vital advocacy and business acumen. This includes mastering the art of fostering community connections within their district, expanding their business footprint beyond local confines, prioritizing self-care and creating tangible advancements within Detroit's business landscape. In addition, fellows will receive mentorship from established Detroit entrepreneurs and access to their networks. "The resilience of Detroit's business community depends on the insights of its entrepreneurs," said SBOA fellow Nezaa Bandele, owner of Paradise Natural Foods. "It's an honor to support a program that lets me directly empower other entrepreneurs. DMB gets that - they know the entrepreneurial spirit drives Detroit.” The fellowship was developed in collaboration with DMB’s SBOA Prime members, who were the first group of entrepreneurs recruited by Detroit Means Business to guide the development of its initiatives. Participating members of the current cohort (SBOA II) are established, profitable, and Detroit-based with at least three employees. They include: · Nezaa Bandele, owner of Paradise Natural Foods · Robyn Childers, owner of Welcome Home Yoga & Wellness · Cathrynn Coleman, owner of Bouncing Around the Motor City · Jonathan Farley, owner of Accesspoint Transport · Joaquín Oyuela, owner of Huapi LLC · Jasmine Royster, owner of Trap Vegan · Tonja Stapleton, owner of Parkstone Development Partners "This fellowship further represents DMB's commitment to the City of Detroit and has the potential to drive prosperity for the small business community," said Kevin Johnson, president and CEO of the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, which manages DMB. “Fellows will walk away with tangible skills on how to become a voice for entrepreneurs and use it to create positive change.” For more information on the SBOA Fellowship, visit www.detroitmeansbusiness.org/sboa. About Detroit Means Business (DMB): Detroit Means Business is a coalition of business support organizations and government agencies that was established to help small businesses in Detroit, Michigan. The coalition's primary objective is to provide small business owners with the resources and support they need to survive and thrive in Detroit's economy. This includes access to financing, training, technical assistance and other resources. About Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC): Detroit Economic Growth Corporation is a non-profit organization that serves as Detroit’s lead implementing agency for business retention, attraction and economic development. DEGC is led by a board comprised of business, civic and community leaders. Its staff provides services for key public authorities that facilitate incentives and other forms of financing for projects that bring new jobs and investment to the City. DEGC also manages important initiatives to support small businesses and grow neighborhood commercial corridors. DEGC is dedicated to inclusive development and access to economic opportunity.

Small businesses are the heart of Detroit, and the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC) is actively supporting the city's entrepreneurs by partnering with various community partners and businesses. “At the DEGC, we understand that consistent efforts to help entrepreneurs achieve success in the city are just as important as our efforts to bring in high-dollar investments to Detroit,” said Kevin Johnson, DEGC CEO and president. “We recognize that the city’s small business owners need all the support we can give, and we work with our partners every day to help make sure that happens.” For example, the DEGC’s long-term partnership with Bank of America has provided more than $1.3 million in grants over the past 15 years to support the DEGC’s efforts in elevating Detroit’s small businesses. Matt Elliott, Michigan Market President for Bank of America, called the DEGC a lifeline for successful entrepreneurship, and that it’s critical for small business owners to know that support is available — especially for women-owned and minority-owned businesses. “Bank of America recognizes the importance of supporting business owners in Detroit, and we’re proud to be a longtime partner of the DEGC, which has the important role of helping small business owners continue to grow their businesses,” Elliott added. As part of their efforts, the DEGC launched the Detroit Means Business (DMB) coalition of private, public and philanthropic partners in 2020 to help meet the needs of Detroit’s small businesses. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the DMB coalition’s support allowed 10 Detroit businesses to remain open and more than 80 of their employees to keep their jobs. Learn more about this partnership by reading the full Michigan Chronicle article.

The stage is set for a dynamic shift as Black Tech Weekend prepares to make its mark in Detroit in October. This innovative adaptation of the renowned main conference is all set to deliver the hallmark content, connectivity, and electrifying energy that followers of the Black Tech Week brand have come to anticipate. Black Tech Weekend will take place October 12-14 at the Book Depository on the Michigan Central Mobility campus. Candice Matthews Brackeen, the visionary Founder and CEO of Lightship Foundation, emphasized the perfect alignment of Detroit's burgeoning growth in early-stage funding and investor engagement with the essence of Black Tech Weekend. She remarked, "With a rapidly emerging startup ecosystem, especially in a city teeming with Black entrepreneurial and professional talent, it's crucial to intentionally offer resources tailored for these visionary creators." Read the press release here.

July 13, 2023 (DETROIT) – The Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC) and City of Detroit’s Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED) have launched a hybrid educational series to equip Detroit entrepreneurs and building property owners with essential knowledge about city compliance. The “Small Business Corridor Compliance Education Series” will provide valuable insights on a range of crucial topics, including regulatory compliance, enforcement, vacant property accountability and resources for developers. According to recent data, about 40 percent of Detroiters consider themselves to be entrepreneurs. However, navigating the complex world of city compliance can pose significant challenges for entrepreneurs and property owners. Recognizing this need, the DEGC and BSEED have developed the education series to empower participants with the knowledge and tools to navigate compliance regulations successfully. “As the liaisons between Detroit's small business community and city services, we have a responsibility to create solutions that not only provide support to business owners but allow for direct access to government services in a way that educates and empowers the community as a whole,” said Lashawna Manigault, director of the District Business Liaison Program, Small Business Services at the DEGC. “Understanding these compliance obligations will not only help participants avoid potential penalties but also create a more compliant and thriving business environment in Detroit." Businesses and property owners in violation of city compliance can face liens, garnishments, seizures and other such actions as permitted by law. By addressing the specific compliance concerns these two stakeholder groups face, the program aims to foster a better understanding of the legal obligations, enabling participants to operate their businesses and properties more effectively and sustainably. "Knowledge is power and our goal is to provide the necessary tools for business owners to avoid fines and stay out of the Department of Appeals and Hearings (DAH) Court,” said BSEED Director David Bell. “The last thing we want is for them to spend money on tickets when it can go towards growing their business." The series will offer in-person sessions in each of Detroit's seven city council districts throughout the summer, making it accessible to small business owners and building property owners. There will also be a monthly webinar covering a specific city service or process for those who are unable to attend in person. The education series will be offered for free to small business owners and building property owners in Detroit. Interested participants can register for individual sessions by visiting DEGC.org or DetroitMeansBusiness.org where they will find additional details about the program schedule and speaker lineup. Additional educational resources about city compliance in Detroit, including guides on city compliance and opening a business in the city, can be found at www.detroitmeansbusiness.org/navigating-city-processes. “By flowing with the current of compliance, business and property owners can avoid treacherous obstacles, maintain a steady course and ultimately reach their destination of sustainable growth and success,” said Sean Gray, vice president of Small Business Services at the DEGC. “Neglecting compliance, on the other hand, is akin to paddling upstream, constantly fighting against the forces that can capsize a business, leading to penalties, legal issues and a loss of reputation.” ### Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC) Detroit Economic Growth Corporation is a non-profit organization that serves as Detroit’s lead implementing agency for business retention, attraction and economic development. DEGC is led by a board comprised of business, civic and community leaders. Its staff provides services for key public authorities that facilitate incentives and other forms of financing for projects that bring new jobs and investment to the City. DEGC also manages important initiatives to support small businesses and grow neighborhood commercial corridors. DEGC is dedicated to inclusive development and access to economic opportunity.

July 12, 2023 (DETROIT) – Detroit Means Business, a coalition of private, public and philanthropic partners dedicated to advancing the success of Detroit's vibrant small business ecosystem, has announced a bid process for companies that can provide consulting and support services for entrepreneurs within the city. In collaboration with its parent organization, the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), Detroit Means Business is leading the charge to empower small businesses by providing tailored and comprehensive support for their professional needs. This Request for Quotations (RFQ) process seeks qualified businesses and professionals across multiple fields to deliver vital technical assistance services directly to Detroit-based small businesses. "We are thrilled and eager to launch this RFQ process, which will be the first step in providing essential services for small businesses in Detroit. This initiative will also help to financially strengthen those selected to be technical assistance providers," said DMB President Dr. Marlo Rencher. "By connecting businesses with qualified experts across various fields, we are paving the way for growth, resilience and success in Detroit's small business ecosystem." The RFQ encompasses six dynamic categories of service that address the specific needs of Detroit's small business community: Accounting and financial education, advising and planning services: Unlock opportunities for small businesses by offering credit repair services, tax preparation, financial audits, grant writing and more. Food-based business services: Revolutionize the food industry through business planning, product development, market analysis, regulatory compliance and innovative packaging and labeling solutions. Digital strategy, marketing and branding services: Nurture a digital-first mindset among small businesses by providing website design and development, content creation, e-commerce strategies and data-driven digital marketing expertise. High-growth technology and strategy: Propel businesses to new heights with pitch preparation, cutting-edge software and hardware development, cyber security consultation and guidance on manufacturing strategies. Business operations, human resources and legal advising: Empower businesses through human resources services, expert business planning and consulting, legal services, and comprehensive construction, architecture and space-related services. Construction, architecture and space-related services: Provide pre-construction services, project management, space planning and programming, product placement and displays, renderings and floor plans, site selection and construction budget development and revision. This RFQ process permits interested technical assistance providers to submit responses for one or multiple service categories within a single submission. Each section will be evaluated independently, ensuring only the most qualified providers are selected for the program's participants. “Detroit Means Business is poised to revolutionize small business support in Detroit through this game-changing RFQ process,” said Sean Gray, vice president of Small Business Services at the DEGC. “DMB continues to offer innovative programming that helps uplift the local economy and cement Detroit as a national leader in small business entrepreneurship.” The RFQ submission process begins on Wednesday, July 26, 2023 at 5 p.m. and will remain open through June 30, 2024, with vendors selected to provide services to businesses on a rolling basis starting in early Fall 2023. A pre-bid conference will be held Wednesday, July 26, 2023 at 2 p.m. via Zoom. To register for the conference and for more information on the RFQ process, please visit https://www.detroitmeansbusiness.org/dmbta. ### About Detroit Means Business (DMB): Detroit Means Business is a coalition of private, public and philanthropic partners dedicated to meet the needs of Detroit’s small businesses. The coalition's primary objective is to provide Detroit-based small business owners with the resources and support to thrive. This includes access to financing, training, technical assistance and other resources. About Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC): Detroit Economic Growth Corporation is a non-profit organization that serves as Detroit’s lead implementing agency for business retention, attraction and economic development. DEGC is led by a board comprised of business, civic and community leaders. Its staff provides services for key public authorities that facilitate incentives and other forms of financing for projects that bring new jobs and investment to the City. DEGC also manages important initiatives to support small businesses and grow neighborhood commercial corridors. DEGC is dedicated to inclusive development and access to economic opportunity.

Detroit has witnessed a remarkable transformation in recent years. The small businesses that have taken root in the city's neighborhoods are at the heart of this revival. These entrepreneurial ventures have breathed new life into once-neglected areas and played a significant role in making Detroit's neighborhoods beautiful. With this in mind, the City of Detroit Department of Neighborhoods and DEGC District Business Liaisons (DBL) have partnered to recognize small businesses with great curb appeal in neighborhood corridors across the city. "This year, the DEGC's District Business Liaison team partnered with the City of Detroit for the Detroit Beautiful Business Recognition. Whether a business owner has been around for many years or is just getting started, we felt it was important to honor those who intentionally positively impact the community," said Lashawna Manigault, Director of the District Business Liaison Program. "In many instances, local neighborhood groups are also working hand in hand to support business corridors in clean-up and beautification efforts. We are all so proud of our City and we want everyone to know that your efforts uplift us all and do not go unnoticed." The DBL team has also partnered with the City of Detroit's BSEED and General Services Department to educate business owners about operating a legal, compliant, and safe establishment. Throughout the summer, DBL's will hand out Beautiful Business Recognition certificates to business owners throughout the city. Businesses that have been recognized so far include: Skin Bar VII SimplyCasual ClothingStore All About Technology Motown Cafe & Grill 42nd Street Events Fairline Food Center The Garden Bug Ice Cream Detroit “It’s quite an honor. We’ve put a lot of work into this space and this street. It’s always nice to be recognized for the work that you put in," said SimplyCasual ClothingStore owner Rufus Bartell. "I’m a firm believer that you keep your head down and let your work show.” Small businesses have become the unsung heroes behind Detroit's renaissance, working tirelessly to revitalize neighborhoods, foster community engagement, and celebrate the city's unique identity. Their impact extends beyond economic benefits, as they create beauty, inspire pride, and cultivate a sense of belonging among residents. “We’ve worked really hard to (maintain) the business, making sure the community is clean, and we’re very thankful for this award,” said Kristina Duhani, of Motown Cafe & Grill. Here are some resources available to Detroit's small business owners: Blight to Beauty guide Open Up Shop guide The Neighborhood Stories “I’m so excited and honored to receive this award. I’m going to continue to do my best as a business leader in the city of Detroit," said Skin Bar VII owner Sevyn Jones. It is essential to recognize and celebrate the small businesses that have transformed Detroit as they continue to be the driving force behind the city's vibrant and prosperous future.

Detroit's small business ecosystem thrives on the principles of diversity, inclusivity, and entrepreneurship. In the heart of this vibrant community, LGBTQ+ small business owners have made remarkable contributions, shaping the city's entrepreneurial landscape. We're celebrating pride month by highlighting these trailblazers and their profound influence on Detroit's small business ecosystem, paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future. Breaking Barriers, Creating Opportunities: LGBTQ+ small business owners in Detroit have shattered societal barriers, defied stereotypes, and created new opportunities. Establishing successful ventures across industries - from fashion, to food, to bees, to mopeds - has proven that talent and innovation know no boundaries. They have forged paths for others to follow, showing that diversity in business brings fresh perspectives and drives economic growth. Inspiring Inclusivity and Acceptance: The influence of LGBTQ+ small business owners extends beyond the confines of their own ventures. Through their visibility and success, they have become beacons of hope, inspiring a more inclusive and accepting society. Embodying authenticity encourages people to embrace their identities, fostering a community where everyone feels valued and welcomed. Based out of the Avenue of Fashion, Motor City Match awardee Good Cakes and Bakes has made its mark on the Detroit community and beyond. Co-Owner April Anderson baked for Oprah Winfrey in 2014, participated on a panel at CGI America in 2015 with Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, Kresge Foundation President Rip Rapson, and former POTUS Bill Clinton, and in 2018 was a pastry chef for the James Beard Media Awards in NYC. Cultivating Safe and Diverse Spaces: LGBTQ+-owned businesses have played a pivotal role in creating safe spaces within Detroit. These establishments provide goods and services and serve as gathering places for the LGBTQ+ community and allies. By fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance, they have cultivated vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, contributing to the cultural fabric of Detroit. Gigi's is one example of an LGBTQ+-owned business that has helped create a safe, accepting space in Detroit. Currently celebrating its 50th year, Gigi's is now Detroit's oldest gay bar, which features karaoke, open-mic nights, and drag shows. Driving Economic Growth: The economic impact of LGBTQ+ small business owners cannot be overstated. Their ventures generate employment opportunities, stimulate local economies, and fuel innovation. By injecting creativity and unique perspectives into their businesses, they attract customers, investors, and tourists, further propelling Detroit's economic growth. Barkside, a Motor City Match Round 22 awardee, has created ample buzz with its innovative dog park and beer garden concept being a first in the city. With 10,000 sq ft of indoor and outdoor space, Barkside plans to host weekend yoga, dog meetups, singles mingle nights, arts and crafts events, and more. Collaboration and Community Building: LGBTQ+ small business owners in Detroit exemplify the spirit of collaboration and community building. They actively support one another through networks, partnerships, and mentorship, fostering a strong ecosystem where shared knowledge and resources contribute to collective success. This collaborative culture strengthens individual businesses and fosters an environment where entrepreneurship thrives. There are multiple ways for small business owners to connect with Detroit's LGBTQ+ community, including the Detroit Regional LGBT Chamber of Commerce, LGBT Detroit, and the City of Detroit. Here is a list of LGBTQ+-owned small businesses operating in Detroit: (List provided by the City of Detroit and Motor City Match - Not a complete list) Welcome Home Yoga & Wellness Today Is The Day Inc. Well Done Goods The Royce Marrow Motown Mopeds CassChem Viva La Vida Imports Nepantla Cafe & Food Truck Cata Vino Wine Bar Detroit Hot Sandwich (formerly Delray Barbecue) Faithful Patrol Longevity Vegantarian Cuisine Liberal Arts Gallery 6Witch3 Michael B. Anthony Floral & Event Design Burris Law, PLL La Feria Spanish Tapas Corktown Health Gigi's Bees in the D Vesper Books and Wine - Coming soon Barkside - Coming soon Code x Rosella Good Cakes and Bakes The Rejuvenation Station The Opal, LLC NINE Design + Homes Bloodlinerich Authentic Sportswear and Fashion K. Walker Collective Haute to Death Joy of Nails, LLC ForHerCosmetics Detroit Boujie Burgers Detroit's small business ecosystem owes much of its vitality and success to the contributions of LGBTQ entrepreneurs. They have broken barriers, inspired inclusivity, and driven economic growth through their entrepreneurial endeavors. As we celebrate the achievements of LGBTQ small business owners in Detroit, let us continue to support and uplift their endeavors, ensuring that diversity and inclusivity remain integral to the city's entrepreneurial spirit.

We love hearing stories of how Detroit small business owners are capitalizing on the small business resources that are continuously updated on the Detroit Means Business website! Da Bomb Taco's story is just one of many - owner Lisa Session found out about a grant opportunity from the Olga Loizon Memorial Foundation and became one of 5 awardees. “I actually learned of the grant through Detroit Means Business. They have a wonderful resource full of grant opportunities," said Session. Read more at BLAC.

In the rich tapestry of Detroit's diverse communities, Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) owned small businesses play a vital role in shaping its social and economic fabric. Their contributions go beyond commerce, fostering cultural exchange, promoting inclusivity, and adding vibrancy to the city. Cultural Exchange and Inclusivity AAPI-owned businesses serve as cultural ambassadors, offering glimpses into their communities' rich traditions, art, and cuisines. They provide platforms for cultural exchange, fostering understanding, respect, and appreciation of Asian American and Pacific Islander culture. By showcasing their heritage through music, dance, and various cultural events, these businesses cultivate a sense of belonging and inclusivity, allowing Detroiters from different backgrounds to unite and celebrate diversity. Celebrating Detroit’s AAPI Businesses Detroit has an extensive history of being a cultural melting pot, which carries over into the small business ecosystem. In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we’ve compiled a list of a few amazing of AAPI-owned businesses in Detroit. Note: This is not a complete list of all AAPI-owned businesses in the city. 27th Letter Books Located in Southwest Detroit at 3546 Michigan Ave., this Motor City Match awardee prides itself on having a welcoming and inclusive environment, with a selection of books that often represent underrepresented voices. This Detroit bookstore is 25% Black-owned, 25% Asian/Pacific Islander-owned, 50% veteran-owned, 50% woman-owned, and 50% writer-owned. 27th Letter Books is much more than a bookseller; it hosts various community events such as open mic nights, poetry readings, writing workshops, art fairs, and more. Learn more about 27th Letter Books at 27thletterbooks.com. More AAPI retailers to check out: Mo Beauty Supply, 1123 W Warren Ave., Detroit Festive Essentials, 10225 Joseph Campau, Hamtramck Mr. Song Millinery, online-only at mrsongmillinery.com The Royce / Marrow / Mink Having spent her childhood in Singapore, Ping Ho, a member of the Detroit Means Business Small Business Owner Advocates, has made quite a name for herself in Detroit. Ho founded The Royce (76 W. Adams Ave., Ste. A), a retail shop and wine bar hybrid downtown, and Marrow (8044 Kercheval, Ste. 1B), a four-time James Beard nominated restaurant and neighborhood butcher shop in West Village, and is a co-founder of Mink (1701 Trumbull), an oyster bar and restaurant in Corktown. Learn more about The Royce at theroycedetroit.com. Learn more about Marrow at marrowdetroit.com. Learn more about Mink at minkdetroit.com. Milk & Froth Having started out as an ice cream truck before transitioning to a brick-and-mortar location in 2021, Milk & Froth is in Downtown Detroit at 535 Griswold, Suite 112. Another Motor City Match awardee, this artisanal ice cream shop offers tasty classic dairy and vegan ice creams made from scratch in small batches. There’s nothing to feel guilty about here, as Milk & Froth serves ice cream products free of pre-manufactured mixes, artificial flavors and colors, and chemical stabilizers. Learn more about Milk & Froth at milkandfroth.com. JP Makes and Bakes A 2023 Comerica Hatch Detroit Semifinalist and participant of the Food Network’s Holiday Baking Championship (season 7), JP Makes and Bakes, owned by Jonathan Peregrino, is currently pursuing its goal of opening a brick-and-mortar location in the city. Peregrino celebrates his Filipino heritage and love of sweets with all the delicious treats he bakes up. You can find JP Makes and Bakes at various pop-up events throughout the Metro Detroit area, including an upcoming collaboration with Huddle Soft Serve from June 1-4. Learn more about JP Makes and Bakes at jpmakesandbakes.com. Chi Fan Le Having gained popularity as a pop-up food vendor at events in the Metro Detroit area, 2023 Comerica Hatch Detroit semifinalist Chi Fan Le continues to see its business growing in Detroit. Owner Angela Chi, a Chinese American who moved to the city from New York, regularly cooks up dumplings, wontons, tomato egg stir fry, cha shao pork and veggie baozi in partnership with other eateries and pop-up events. Chi Fan Le also hosts food-making experiences and collaborates with organizations in Detroit for various community events. Learn more about Chi Fan Le at chifanle.co. Bangkok 96 Street Food Following the success of their original location in Dearborn, Hmong Chef Genevieve Vang expanded to Detroit by creating Bangkok 96 Street Food at the Detroit Shipping Company (474 Peterboro St.). Deemed an “homage to Southeast Asian ‘jungle’ cuisine remixed with American flair.” Items such as the Pad Thai Roll and Candied Beef with Sticky Rice have been a hit with Detroiters and visitors to the city. Learn more about Bangkok 96 Street Food at b96streetfood.com. More AAPI restaurants to check out: Flowers of Vietnam, 4440 Vernor Hwy., Detroit Sullaf, 814 W. Seven Mile Rd., Detroit Go! Sy Thai, 4240 Cass Ave., Ste 103, Detroit & 1226 Griswold St., Detroit Boostan Cafe, 3470 Holbrook Ave., Hamtramck Yemen Cafe, 8740 Joseph Campau Ave., Hamtramck As we strive to create harmonious and inclusive cities, recognizing the economic contributions of AAPI-owned businesses, fostering cultural exchange, and appreciating their social impact, we pave the way for more vibrant, equitable, and united communities.

Over 300 Detroit entrepreneurs unite at Ford Field during National Small Business Week for a day of expert training and essential tools to achieve tangible business growth Over $20,000 in cash grants and technical assistance awarded to Detroit entrepreneurs and small business owners Business fellowship and digital access hub unveiled at summit to help Detroit-based small businesses reach new heights of success Guest speakers including U.S. Senator Gary Peters, Baobab Fare Co-Founder and CEO Hamissi Mamba, Detroit creative Tony Whlgn and Livegistics Co-Founder and Chief Financial Officer Andre Davis May 2, 2023 (DETROIT) – Over 300 small business owners and entrepreneurs from Detroit converged at Ford Field for the highly anticipated second annual Small Business Summit, presented by Detroit Means Business. The coalition, consisting of private, public, and philanthropic partners, is committed to fulfilling the needs of small businesses in Detroit. Building on the success of the previous year's summit, the event boasted an impressive lineup of keynote speakers, interactive workshops and invaluable networking opportunities for attendees. With the fierce competition in today's marketplace, the goal was to provide concrete skills and proven strategies to help small business owners and entrepreneurs thrive. “By hosting this small business summit, we aim to give Detroit's entrepreneurs the tools, knowledge and resources they need to build and scale their businesses. Our goal is to help them overcome their challenges and create new opportunities for growth and prosperity,” said Dr. Marlo Rencher, who recently became DMB’s first president. “We believe that supporting small businesses is crucial for the economic development of our city, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to help them succeed." Attendees had the opportunity to learn from a variety of experts in the field, many of whom have Detroit ties. Speakers at this year’s summit included U.S. Senator Gary Peters, Baobab Fare Co-Founder and CEO Hamissi Mamba, Artist Tony Whlgn and Andre Davis, co-founder and chief financial officer for minority-owned technology company Livegistics. Mamba, Whlgn and Davis participated in a panel discussion providing invaluable insights for business owners seeking to expand their enterprises on a global scale. Additional panels addressed funding opportunities and offered advice on prioritizing mental wellness, a crucial aspect given the high-pressure lifestyle many entrepreneurs lead. (L to R): Panel moderator Eric Thomas, Baobab Fare Co-Founder and CEO Hamissi Mamba and Artist Tony Whlgn participate in the panel discussion: The blueprint for going global. The organization also awarded over $20,000 in cash grants and technical assistance to small business owners courtesy of DMB supporters, TechTown Capital Program, Black Leaders Detroit and Fair Food Network. “It's critical that we prioritize funding and resources to support entrepreneurs, especially in times of economic uncertainty, and it is our duty to ensure that business owners have what they need to succeed,” said Kevin Johnson, president and CEO of the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, which manages DMB. “We are thankful for the generous support of donors who have recognized the importance of investing in small businesses and have provided funding to help them thrive. Together, we can empower and equip entrepreneurs with the necessary resources to create a brighter future for all." Courtney Hamilton (middle), owner of For the Love of Cheesecake, is presented with a $2,500 cash grant by Aaron Jackson (left), Director of the Michigan Good Food Fund, and Detroit Means Business President Dr. Marlo Rencher during the 2023 DMB Small Business Summit The DMB also unveiled two exciting new initiatives to propel small business owners toward success. The organization launched a new fellowship through the Small Business Owner Advocates, a group of Detroit small business owners who volunteer their time as an advisory group that directly informs the strategy and programming direction of DMB. The Small Business Fellowship is open to applicants from a wide range of industries, including but not limited to retail, food and beverage, technology and professional services. Interested applicants can apply at: https://www.detroitmeansbusiness.org/sboa. In addition, DMB collaborated with the JP Morgan Chase Foundation to launch the Digital Access Hub, a platform designed to assess the digital preparedness of small businesses. Small businesses can access a wide range of resources on how to leverage technology and digital tools, including marketing tips, personalized strategy sessions and much more. Further details can be found at detroitmeansbusiness/digitalhub. “Guided by the voices of Detroit’s small and midsize businesses and codified in its North Star goals, DMB has two main purposes. The first is to scale the ecosystem to serve exponentially more Detroit businesses with honor. The other is to elevate the quality of services, so that Detroiters are receiving the best of the best. This conference will help catalyze our bold vision for Detroit’s small business community to thrive and grow,” said Walker-Miller Energy Services Founder and CEO Carla Walker-Miller, who serves as DMB’s Executive Committee Chair. “We are fully committed to harnessing the power of Detroit's small business ecosystem to bring this vision to life.” ### About Detroit Means Business (DMB): Detroit Means Business is a coalition of business support organizations and government agencies that was established to help small businesses in Detroit, Michigan. The coalition's primary objective is to provide small business owners with the resources and support they need to survive and thrive in Detroit's economy. This includes access to financing, training, technical assistance and other resources. About Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC): Detroit Economic Growth Corporation is a non-profit organization that serves as Detroit’s lead implementing agency for business retention, attraction and economic development. DEGC is led by a board comprised of business, civic and community leaders. Its staff provides services for key public authorities that facilitate incentives and other forms of financing for projects that bring new jobs and investment to the City. DEGC also manages important initiatives to support small businesses and grow neighborhood commercial corridors. DEGC is dedicated to inclusive development and access to economic opportunity.

The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown has announced the four businesses advancing to the final stage of the competition, which includes another round of public voting and the opportunity to compete at the Hatch Off on April 26. These four businesses will face off to win $100,000 in startup funds from Comerica Bank, as well as technical assistance from TechTown and its partners, to kickstart and open a brick-and-mortar business in Detroit, Hamtramck or Highland Park. “TechTown understands that the public’s vote in the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest means empowering the community to shape the future they want to see. By casting your vote, you’re not only helping deserving entrepreneurs achieve their dreams, but also contributing towards the growth and vitality of Detroit’s neighborhoods,” said Christianne Malone, assistant vice president for economic development at Wayne State University and chief program officer of TechTown Detroit. “The fact that these four businesses have made it to the final stage of the contest based on the community’s voice is a remarkable indication of the success in each of their futures.” Public voting for the bookstore, Ethiopian restaurant, roastery, and party rental shop continues April 24-26. The four entrepreneurial teams will have the chance to pitch their business plan in front of a live audience at the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest’s annual Hatch Off on Wednesday, April 26. Read more at Hatch Detroit by TechTown

The 10 semifinalists for the 2023 Comerica Hatch Detroit contest have been announced. The winner will earn $100,000 in startup funds from Comerica Bank, along with a package of accounting, legal, IT and public relations assistance from Hatch Detroit and its partners. The winner also will open a brick-and-mortar location in Detroit, Hamtramck or Highland Park, according to a news release. "The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest has become a proven launching pad for budding entrepreneurs, not just because of the startup funding from Comerica Bank and expert counsel from TechTown Detroit and its partners, but because the public has a voice in which businesses they'd like to see set up shop in their neighborhoods, and they are dedicated to supporting those businesses," Chistianna Malone, TechTown chief program officer and assistant vice president for economic development at Wayne State University said in a news release. Public voting is open online and four finalists will be named April 13. In-person voting is also available this week 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday at the following Detroit locations: Black Coffee Cafe at 9405 John R St., Detroit Pepper Co. at 17180 E. Warren Ave. and Detroit Rosa at 19180 Grand River Ave. Read more at Crain's Detroit Business.