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The Michigan Black Business Alliance has opened a new hub to empower more entrepreneurs and drive economic equity.
According to Crain’s Detroit Business, the organization — which focuses on closing the racial wealth gap through access to capital, networking opportunities, and advocacy — is expanding its reach. Since its inception in 2021, the alliance has grown its network from 250 to 1,800 members.
“We’re still growing, and our members all have different needs,” Charity Dean, CEO of the Michigan Black Business Alliance, told the outlet. “We did a survey of our members in 2022, and some wanted a commercial kitchen and space for pop-ups. Imagine being able to try out products before you sign a lease to see if there’s a market for what you’re offering.”
The Michigan Black Business Alliance has moved into a 5,000-square-foot space at Grand Park Centre at 28 W. Adams Ave. Entrepreneurs will benefit from co-working spaces, conference rooms, a wellness center, and classrooms. Furthermore, one classroom will host a 12-week program to equip entrepreneurs with the tools to secure funding.
The Michigan Black Business Alliance has already achieved significant results from previous efforts, securing $11 million in capital for business owners and facilitating over 1,000 contracts for its members.
“The BLK Biz Hub is more than a space — it’s our members’ Hub, where they’ll find the resources and support needed to grow stronger businesses and stronger communities,” said Dean, according to D Business.
The hub will also be helpful to artists, who will have a chance to highlight and sell their work under the “Art of Business” gallery initiative.
Looking ahead, Dean says she expects for the organization to move into a larger building. The current location is being leased for the next five years.
“We imagine our future space being much larger,” Dean explained. “I think owning a building would give our members even more of an opportunity to thrive.”
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