Terri’s Cakes Detroit is a boutique cake studio and event space known for stunning custom cakes, creative decorating classes, and unforgettable experiences. Rooted in artistry and community, we blend flavor, design, and connection to celebrate life’s sweetest moments—whether through custom orders, hands-on workshops, or intimate gatherings at our beautiful East Warren location.

Terri’s Cakes Detroit has been a beloved legacy business since 1977, built on the foundation my mother laid with the simple belief that “I am because you are.” In 2024, we opened our flagship location on East Warren to continue that legacy—not just through cakes, but through community. Our next phase, Bake Your Dreams, will invite local students twice a week to cook, share a meal, and receive tutoring support after school. In partnership with DPSCD, they’ll also gain paid co-op experience at Terri’s, with earnings placed in a trust to seed their future ambitions—literally helping them bake their dreams. For the many neighborhood children who stop by asking to work, this program bridges the gap between academic success and real opportunity. The Detroit Elevate Award would allow us to scale this initiative, expand our reach, and deepen our commitment to transforming lives through food, mentorship, and legacy. Terri’s has always been more than a bakery—it’s a blueprint for what happens when business and community rise together.

Rainbow provides professional services like tree removal, trimming, pruning, planting, and sometimes emergency storm cleanup, focusing on tree health and property safety.

Hello. My name is Jamar Willis, and I am the owner of Rainbow Lawn and Tree Service, a tree removal company based in Detroit. We proudly serve the Detroit Metropolitan area, specializing in the removal of trees and blight in underserved communities. Our commitment is to provide professional, skilled services utilizing modern equipment. I recall personally experiencing the challenge of finding a professional tree service for my own residence, only to discover that many no longer served my area, despite a growing need in neighborhoods with unattended homes and lots. Rainbow Lawn and Tree Service addresses this gap by offering dependable, high-quality tree services at an affordable price. We have successfully removed hundreds of trees, including those in challenging positions, making complex tasks appear effortless. We also handle emergency situations, such as removing entire trees that have fallen on customers' homes due to storms, without causing further damage. Our team comprises dedicated Detroit residents, and the knowledge that we support their families through our work is a significant motivator. The $50,000 award would be instrumental for our new, minority-owned business as we navigate the inherent challenges of the tree service industry, such as managing debt and enhancing efficiency, while striving for continued growth in an increasingly competitive environment.

Johnson Distribution is a minority woman-owned company and we want consumers to enjoy static-free, wonderfully soft laundry with our organic dryer sheets. Made with plant-based ingredients and infused with natural essential oils, our sheets offer a hypoallergenic and biodegradable alternative to conventional softeners. Experience a subtle, refreshing scent and reduce your enviromental footprint with every load.

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MG Studio Haircare and Salon offers a plant-based, biodegradable haircare line suitable for all hair types. Our curated products nourish hair and scalp, complemented by salon services and educational support. We aim to enhance the integrity of our clients’ hair while providing a diverse range of professional beauty products for salons, promoting holistic hair and skincare solutions.

We're excited to announce the expansion of our retail boutique and production facility in Detroit, linking salon services with product creation. Last year, we surpassed $200,000 in revenue, with projections approaching $440,000 by 2027. We’re committed to training individuals in plant-based product production and promoting healthy hair as part of a healthy lifestyle. Explore our range of products at mgstudiosalon.com and follow us on social media to join our journey

ANGELS ONLY is a fashion-forward medical scrub brand redefining workwear for women in the healthcare industry. Designed to flatter, our scrubs blend comfort, confidence, and style because our essential workers deserve to look and feel as good as the care they give. We create uniforms that empower women to feel unstoppable, on and off the clock.

My immediate growth plans are to expand ANGELS ONLY’s reach, product line, and community presence. With this $50,000, I plan to introduce new scrub colorways and styles that continue to blend fashion with function, meeting the growing demand from women in healthcare who want to look and feel their best. I’ll also invest in marketing and partnerships to reach more nurses, estheticians, and medical professionals nationwide. Most importantly, I plan to make my ANGELS ONLY events monthly, creating consistent spaces for women in healthcare to connect, be inspired, and build confidence together. These steps will strengthen our brand visibility, deepen community engagement, and position ANGELS ONLY for long-term, scalable success.their official uniform provider. Beyond the product, I’m hosting community events that celebrate and connect women in healthcare, creating spaces where they can feel seen, valued, and confident. This funding will help us move from a viral brand to a household name in medical apparel, scaling our reach while deepening our local impact.

Listen To Her Beauty & Wellness Shoppe is a holistic sanctuary where beauty, wellness, and body literacy meet. We serve women, mothers, and community members who value self-care and seek a supportive space to nurture their outer beauty and inner well-being through expert haircare, wellness practices, and education that connects beauty with whole-body health.

Listen To Her Beauty & Wellness Shoppe is a Detroit-based salon dedicated to restorative haircare and holistic wellness. After operating successfully as a private suite, I’m now expanding into a commercial brick-and-mortar location that will house a full-service salon, scalp treatment room, and wellness education space. With the support of Detroit Elevate and the $50,000 award, I will secure a 1,200–1,500 sq ft lease and complete the improvements and equipment purchases needed to serve more clients. The new location will expand capacity for specialized haircare and scalp therapies, while also hosting body literacy workshops, wellness events, and fee-based apprenticeship programs for aspiring professionals. This model bridges beauty and education, creating a sustainable business that supports women’s economic opportunity and holistic health. Detroit Elevate’s resources will help transform a trusted salon brand into a community-rooted destination for wellness, confidence, and growth.

Oluchi African Hair Braiding provides professional hair braiding services in Metropolitan Detroit.

We are Oluchi African Hair Braiding, a thriving small business that brings the rich diverse art of braiding to the heart of the community. As a rapidly growing small business, we have a vision to expand our services and deepen our impact. The $50,000 award, granted by Detroit Elevate, will enable Oluchi Braiding to expand our service offering, enhance customer experience, and build a stronger online presence. The award will also strengthen community outreach and education, giving us the opportunity to teach the art of braiding, employing more workforce. Oluchi African Hair Braiding wants to build a legacy, a place where culture, creativity, and connection come together to empower our community.

What’s The Dill is a Detroit-based breadless deli specializing in stuffed pickle sandwiches, vegan-friendly options, and fresh deli favorites. We promote healthy, fun eating with a creative twist, serving the community through flavorful innovation, local partnerships, and inclusive access to nutritious meals, all while uplifting Detroit’s food culture and creating local job opportunities.

With the $50,000 grant, I’ll invest in learning the franchising process so we can build a strong and sustainable business model. We’ll start laying the groundwork to franchise What’s The Dill, purchase more products to meet customer demand, hire more local staff, and upgrade our kitchen equipment to boost efficiency and consistency. These steps will help us serve more customers, create more jobs, and bring our Detroit-grown concept to new communities. This funding isn’t just about expanding a business , it’s about building a brand that represents health, creativity, and Detroit pride.

Bookstore

With a $50,000 grant, Pages Bookshop could scale its operations and permanently increase revenue by 500% through a combination of expanded inventory, stronger community programming, and sustainable infrastructure investments.
This funding would allow the store to deepen partnerships with publishers, local schools, nonprofits, and small businesses by offering bulk literacy programs, youth publishing workshops, and cultural events that promote Detroit authors and creatives. Books are not just products, they represent the voices of those working the hardest to be heard, and are the foundations of businesses, and movements. Each title we carry is a story, and each sale is an opportunity for connection and transformation. Nowhere is that more true than the small bookshop, where we have the intimacy and agility to respond to what our community needs most, and the access to those with the best story to tell.

For the Love of Cheesecake is a minority woman owned gourmet bakery in Detroit specializing in custom cheesecakes made from high quality, locally sourced ingredients. Known for its signature flavors and creative designs, the company sells through events, catering, and online orders, and is expanding into a café and commissary kitchen to support other local bakers.

My immediate growth plan for the $50,000 is to purchase the necessary equipment for my commercial kitchen space. This investment will allow me to expand production, meet growing demand, and create a shared space that supports other local bakers and small food entrepreneurs. By building a fully equipped kitchen, I will be able to hire more Detroit residents especially women and college students and provide them with flexible employment and hands-on training, strengthening both my business and the local community.

Detroit Culture is a lifestyle and empowerment brand rooted in community pride and progress. Through creative initiatives, collaborations, and grassroots outreach, Detroit Culture uplifts local voices, promotes unity, and celebrates the resilience that defines Detroit. The brand serves as a movement to inspire growth, opportunity, and positive change across the city.

Detroit Culture, a brand celebrating creativity, style, and community spirit in Detroit and beyond. Our mission is to inspire individuals to chase their dreams, turn their passions into impact, and give back to the communities that raised them. Through Detroit Culture, we elevate local artists and small businesses by creating opportunities for collaboration, growth, and exposure while strengthening the city’s cultural and economic landscape. Winning this award will allow us to open our first brick and mortar location, a hub where we can teach entrepreneurial skills, showcase talent, and inspire the next generation of leaders. We are committed to motivating others, amplifying Detroit’s creative scene, and providing a platform where talent from Detroit and beyond can thrive.

Mature is a premier lifestyle clothier based in Detroit, offering curated brands and styles that blend contemporary casual and modern upscale attire. Since 2017, we’ve specialized in personal styling, event styling, and Weddings by Mature for grooms and groomsmen. Our newly branded Mature Golf Club connects people to the golf experience through style, performance, and personal growth.

Mature, founded in 2017, is a lifestyle clothier that exudes luxury through wardrobe and experiences. Our core offering includes contemporary casual and modern upscale attire, and our expertise is identifying how to connect each client’s lifestyle to an international and versatile wardrobe. We have become leaders locally in wedding styling for grooms and groomsmen, as well as in golf apparel and unique golf experiences. Weddings by Mature and Mature Golf Club are now separate divisions within our organization, allowing us to serve these growing markets with tailored focus and innovation. With our flagship store in Detroit’s historic Fisher Building, we are poised to expand with an additional location to meet growing demand. This funding will accelerate growth by strengthening our wedding division, elevating marketing activations such as golf outings, pop-ups, and community events, and enhancing digital sales through targeted campaigns and subscription offerings. With a strong brand identity and deep ties to Detroit’s community, we are positioned to scale into a multi-store lifestyle brand that blends retail, culture, and experiences.

The Leafinator LLC is a Michigan-based company dedicated to creating innovative, ergonomic, and eco-friendly yard care solutions. Its flagship product, The Leafinator, is a 3-in-1 rake that rakes, grabs, and lifts leaves without bending or strain. Designed for comfort, efficiency, and sustainability, it makes outdoor work easier for homeowners, seniors, and lawn professionals. The Leafinator LLC is also WOSB certified.

The Leafinator® is an ergonomic, multi-functional rake designed to make yard work faster, easier, and pain-free — combining the power to rake and grab, allowing you to lift leaves without bending or strain. This innovative tool supports health and wellness for homeowners, lawn professionals, and individuals with mobility challenges while promoting sustainable yard care that’s Eco-friendly.

With $50,000 in funding, The Leafinator® will reduce cost of goods sold for our first 1,000 units. By lowering production costs this will directly increase profitability. These savings will allow us to allocate more resources toward marketing, packaging, and fulfillment, accelerating our readiness for retail partnerships.

The funding will also strengthen our brand visibility through trade shows, community events, and digital campaigns, helping us reach a broader audience.

By lowering production expenses and amplifying brand exposure, this investment will position The Leafinator® for sustainable growth and long-term impact within both local and national markets.

Where Soul Meets Sizzle
Netta’s Hibachi is a Detroit based soul food catering company bringing bold hibachi flavors and homestyle comfort to every event. We specialize in on site hibachi cooking, food truck catering, private chef experiences, and custom menus for weddings, corporate lunches, community events, and family gatherings. Our signature style combines the excitement of the grill with the rich traditions of soul food, delivering fresh, made to order meals that guests remember.

I’m honored to be part of the Detroit Elevate program and to represent the spirit of Detroit’s resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurship. With the support and resources from Detroit Elevate, I plan to expand Netta’s Hibachi LLC by upgrading my mobile kitchen operations, improving efficiency, and reaching more neighborhoods with fresh, flavorful, and culturally inspired meals. The potential cash award will allow me to invest in advanced equipment, secure additional staffing, and enhance marketing to grow my brand visibility. Beyond business growth, I’m committed to creating local jobs and mentorship opportunities for young adults interested in culinary arts and entrepreneurship. My goal is to build a business that not only feeds the community but also empowers it showing that with the right support, small businesses can spark big change. By voting for me, you’re investing in a mission that blends good food, community pride, and economic empowerment for Detroit’s future.

Mrs. Pruitt's Gourmet CHA CHA is a relish, condiment, sauce gourmet company. The first CHA CHA relish company manufactured in the Detroit Metropolitan area. Rooted in a cherished 1830s South Carolina family recipe, this authentic Southern classic is plant‑based, vegan, and gluten‑free. With no preservatives, additives, or artificial ingredients, it’s a versatile staple that honors tradition while embracing clean, modern eating.

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We are a certified minority female family-owned supplier of natural health and organic products located in Detroit Michigan since 2019. Our company offers a range of carefully selected, high-quality liquid herbal extract supplements, powders, syrups, natural crystal deodorants for the whole body, and more. Our natural health products offer safe, effective alternatives and complementary solutions to support a balanced wellness regimen.

Hello, my name is LaKeisha LaGrande, founder of Natural Living by Design II, LLC, a certified minority, woman, and family-owned health and wellness company in Detroit.

We create natural, chemical-free products like our Whole Body Crystal Natural Deodorant Mist and over 70 herbal supplements that promote healing from the inside out. We’re in 20 Michigan stores and preparing to scale nationwide.

I was chosen to co-author a book with Kevin Harrington, the original Shark from Shark Tank, and we’ve also caught the attention of Forbes Riley, the Queen of Pitch with $2.5 billion in sales. They both see our potential — and we want to stay on their radar.

We’re seeking $50,000 to ramp up marketing, restock inventory, and partner with Kevin Harrington’s Big Brand Ventures and Forbes Riley’s Mastermind sales team to reach our first million dollars in online sales.

Our next vision is to open a beautiful, state-of-the-art Himalayan Salt Cave Spa & Float Wellness Hub — offering Salt Therapy and more — giving Detroit a place to breathe, heal, and restore.

Nuvo Studio + Renovation is a Michigan-based design and supply firm specializing in premium kitchen transformations and wholesale cabinetry and countertop solutions. We serve homeowners seeking elegant renovations and professionals, contractors, designers, and architects, who need reliable, high-quality cabinets and countertops. Our mission is to bridge design and supply with integrity, craftsmanship, and lasting value.

Nuvo Studio + Renovation was born from resilience, from a woman who started with nothing but a vision and built a company that transforms spaces and lives.

We specialize in custom cabinetry and countertops, bringing luxury-quality design and renovations without the luxury price tag to homeowners and businesses.

But Nuvo is more than design, it’s a movement for opportunity. Winning this award will allow us to open our first showroom in Detroit, hire specialized staff, and implement internal systems that support sustainable growth.

Beyond scaling operations, this investment will fuel our mission to train and employ single mothers, offering them dignified work opportunities in the trades.

This isn’t just about growing my business, it’s about building a legacy of craftsmanship, community, and hope right here in Detroit.

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SpaLand Mobile Spa is a luxury mobile wellness company that brings the spa experience directly to you — at home, work, or special events. Founded by Brandy Ali, an award-winning massage therapist, SpaLand offers professional massages, facials, nail care, and more with a focus on healing and convenience. We proudly accept insurance, making self-care accessible to everyone. Our mission is to redefine wellness by creating mobile spa experiences that relax, restore, and rejuvenate. With plans to build a fleet of mobile spa RVs and expand nationwide, SpaLand is on a mission to make “massage as medicine” available in all 50 states.

Detroit Cycling Studio is a high-energy indoor cycling and group fitness studio right here in Detroit. We’re passionate about creating a welcoming space where fitness is affordable and accessible for everyone. Along with cycling and group classes, we’re growing to include senior programs and family-friendly options, all designed to bring people together through movement and community.

Detroit Cycling Studio is a high-energy indoor cycling and group fitness studio based in Detroit. Our mission is to make fitness affordable, inclusive, and accessible for all ages and fitness levels. After reopening in May 2025, our focus has been on rebuilding our programs and creating new ways to serve the community. With the help of this award, we plan to enhance our senior fitness program by purchasing Chair Pedal Exercisers with Electronic Displays to bring safe and engaging workouts directly into senior living facilities. We also plan to add on-site child care during classes to make it easier for parents to stay active while their children enjoy supervised play and crafts. Strengthening our marketing will help us reach more Detroit residents who are looking for a welcoming and community-driven place to work out. This support will allow us to create new jobs, grow our membership base, and expand the positive impact of Detroit Cycling Studio on health and wellness throughout our city.

In home daycare servicing families on the westside of Detroit

Books and Nooks Kiddie Care Academy is elevating from a home based daycare to a 24 hour childcare center. We recently purchased a brick and mortar on the westside of Detroit. Our center is currently being renovated and 50,000 will bring us to the finish line to opening our doors to the public. With the help of this grant we will be able to complete renovations and no longer have to turn away working parents due to ratio. Our center will bring 20+ jobs to the city of immediate growth plans? *
Detroit while assisting parents that's in need of childcare keep theirs. At Books and Nooks Kiddie Care Academy we provide a safe loving and educational environment for all children in our care.. Our childcare establishment is where 📚 Books and 🧠 Minds meet.

So Unfair Beauty Bar is a full-service hair salon that specializes in natural hair care, hair restoration, & hair replacements. Located in Detroit Northwest district for the last 9 years serving the community. We are a family oriented salon that welcomes all phases of hair care.

My plans are renovation and modernization, enhanced products, community engagement, job creations and local engagements.

Pure Juice N’Joy is more than just a juice company—we aim to be a cornerstone of wellness and community empowerment in Detroit. Our mission is to make intentional health and nutrition accessible to all by offering fresh-pressed juices, including our 3 day “glow up” juice cleanse, and wellness education that inspires healthier lifestyles.

Pure Juice N’Joy is a Detroit-based wellness brand providing fresh-pressed, nutrient-rich juices that support healthier lifestyles and help people become their best selves.

Our mission focuses on health equity, providing accessible nutrition in areas with limited healthy beverage options. We have established traction through partnerships with local farmers markets, gyms, community pop-ups, and wellness events to increase access to convenient, healthier, and locally sourced beverage choices. This award will allow us to scale production through commercial kitchen access and improved packaging, enabling retail and wholesale expansion. Increased capacity will create local jobs within the community and empower more Detroit families to enjoy nourishing, wellness products right in their neighborhood. This award will fund commercial kitchen space, upgraded labeling, and production equipment necessary for retail distribution and volume growth. With your support, Pure Juice N’Joy will strengthen Detroit’s health landscape and create a model for community-focused wellness entrepreneurship.

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Located here in Midtown Detroit, Bleu Bowtique is a unique haberdashery that blends timeless style with modern sophistication, serving professionals, students and style-conscious gentlemen who appreciate detailed craftsmanship and confidence in their wardrobe. Our mission is to redefine how men choose to showcase themselves through fashion, one detail at a time. With the resources of Detroit Elevate we can expand our inventory of high demand bow ties, custom suits and other fine accessories to help meet the growing customer demand. We would also use funds to create a more robust online shopping experience with virtual styling consultations to give customers a more in depth look into what we offer. Additional funds will be allocated to the hiring and training of a part time sales associate to improve customer service, turnaround time on custom orders and overall in store shopping experience. Last but not least, giving back with community engagement. Building on our mentorship programs and hosting styling workshops to help bring together young professionals and creatives in Detroit. Workshops such as "Dressing for Success" and teaching young men how to tie a bow tie. Hosting these workshops will help give us the opportunity to partner with local schools and workforce programs to provide professional styling for young men entering the job market.

Brooks Table Chair & Tent Rental is opening a new business, The Grand Pavillion Community Center will bridge gaps between residents, leaders, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs—serving as a hub for progress, collaboration, and empowerment—while also creating two local jobs.

We are transforming a once-blighted church on the west side of Detroit into the Grand Pavilion Community Center — a beautiful, upscale venue that also serves as a much-needed resource hub for local residents. With Detroit Elevate’s support and a $50,000 award, we will complete a large portion of the building upgrades such as HVAC, electrical, and finishing work with the plumbing fixtures, and will allow us to fully open our doors to the community a month early. Our space will host job fairs, health and wellness events, food drives, and programs that provide real pathways to opportunity. At the same time, the venue side of the business will generate revenue through town hall meetings, corporate events, weddings, and community celebrations — creating a sustainable model that gives back.

We are committed to hiring locally, partnering with neighborhood businesses, and keeping rental prices affordable so residents don’t have to leave their neighborhood to celebrate life’s biggest moments. Voting for us means investing in Detroit families, Detroit small businesses, and Detroit neighborhoods. Together, we will turn this building into a beacon of hope, economic empowerment, and community pride for years to come.

Here at JMJ photography we are keeping our community safe and build a sustainable environment for family friends businesses and more we will be inspecting homes and taking photos of all unsafe areas and making sure all repairs are appropriately fixed this is for tenants and landlords we plan to get apps where clients will be willing to book and upload complaints and also be expanding our business network and services we plan to build and grow our business by hiring employees in the future

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Trinity Barbara [the brand] is a fine jewelry brand that creates stunning modern collections using repurposed fine metals and ethically sourced gemstones and diamonds. With a strong focus on design and precision, each piece is hand-fabricated in Detroit, created to fit and complement every style or aesthetic.

Trinity Barbara [the brand] is a fine jewelry brand that creates stunning and versatile modern jewelry collections using repurposed fine metals and ethically sourced gemstones and diamonds. With a strong focus on design and precision, each piece is designed and fabricated in Detroit, and is made to fit and complement any style or aesthetic. Guided by our three pillars—high quality, sustainability, and personalization—we’ve built a reputation for opulence, versatility, and reliability with customers all over the world.

With our newest subsidiaries, BxrbedWire (our custom grillz atelier) and Trinity Barbara Bridal, we’re thrilled to offer a truly all-inclusive, custom jewelry experience that delivers exceptional quality at accessible pricing.

As a small, passionate team, this funding would allow us to bring our Bridal collections to life and support the hiring of a part-time bench jeweler to help with our fabrication process. As proud members of the Black in Jewelry Coalition and participants in the Simone I. Smith Path to Retail Program, we’re excited to continue growing our retail partnerships with department store buyers and expanding Trinity Barbara’s global presence. We can’t wait to share our bridal designs and elevate the jewelry experience for even more customers around the world!

Versara Creatives LLC is a Black Woman-Owned creative agency specializing in film, art, and design. Our mission is to transform your vision into a phenomenon, supporting your brand from concept to execution. Products include canvas art, prints, and apparel. Services span Creative Direction, Production Design, Graphic Design, and Abstract Painting.

Versara Creatives plans to scale by transitioning from a home-based operation to a permanent, multifunctional creative hub in Detroit—a vital tool and stage for the entire creative journey. The resources of Detroit Elevate and the cash award will be immediately invested in real estate development to secure this headquarters, which will house an Art Gallery, a professional Film Studio, and co-working spaces. This hub creates direct economic opportunities by providing an Art Retail Residency space where local artists can operate pop-up storefronts with daily, weekly, and monthly periods. Furthermore, we will include a publicly accessible Material Exchange and Workshop where artists and designers can purchase necessary supplies and access printing services right here in Metro Detroit. Scaling our operation will solidify the funding for our community initiatives: the "28" Grant Program to provide direct financial support to emerging creatives, and our Youth Mentorship Program to offer hands-on professional guidance in film, art, and design. By building this dedicated space, we will grow Versara Creatives into a pillar of the Detroit community, actively investing in talent, commerce, and the next generation of successful creatives.

Jessica Blair Beauty is more than a store, it’s a movement for change. Detroiters no longer have to travel to the suburbs for quality products and a luxury experience. We provide affordable beauty while spotlighting local-owned brands, creating jobs, and opportunity right here in our community. Supporting us means investing in Detroit’s people, culture, and future.

Jessica Blair Beauty is more than just a beauty supply store, it’s a movement rooted in community and representation. As one of the only minority owned beauty supply stores located in the inner city of Detroit, I’ve created a space where Detroiters no longer have to leave their neighborhoods to experience an upscale and welcoming shopping environment. I’ve built this dream from the ground up, doing it at such a young age, fueled by a gap in representation. With your support and the resources from Detroit Elevate, I can continue breaking barriers and proving that excellence exists right here in our city. A $50,000 investment would allow me to stock the high-demand products my customers have been asking for, highlight more local Detroit-based hair care and skincare brands, expand to a second location on the city’s east side, and continue hosting/sponsoring free community events. This competition is bigger than me, it’s about opening doors for others, creating opportunities, and proving to the next generation that we belong and can thrive in an industry that for too long excluded us.

Pressed Juice Bar by Juicing With Jai is more than a juice stop, it’s a wellness hub. We serve cold-pressed juices, herbal teas, smoothies and gut-friendly remedies that nourish from the inside out. Rooted in community and culture, our mission is to make health accessible, vibrant, and real—one juice, one smoothie, one transformation at a time.

Juicing With Jai is a wellness brand committed to making gut health and clean nutrition accessible to every community, not just those with privilege. While we currently serve Metro Detroit from our brick-and-mortar juice bar, our growth strategy includes expanding mobility and access through a branded Juicing With Jai food/juice truck that will serve both urban and suburban neighborhoods across Michigan. Before opening our physical location, we built community trust through weekly meet-up locations east and west, and now we’re scaling that model to reach even more households consistently. We are also hoping to launch healthy vending machines in schools to give youth alternatives to processed snacks by offering fresh juices, smoothies, and nutrient-dense options. Our mission is to close the nutritional gap in underserved communities by bringing real wellness to the streets, schools, and families who need it most. Juicing With Jai isn’t just a juice business, it’s a movement for health equity and long-term lifestyle change.

We maximize the protection of your family, business, and property by offering the design, installation, monitoring, and maintenance of Life Safety & Electronic Security Systems.

Our mission is to protect the customers, assets, and property of local small business owners so they can focus on running their operations with ease and peace of mind. With the assistance of Detroit Elevate's grant, the funding will help us to increase our brand awareness, hire employees, and train interns within the Detroit, Highland Park, and Hamtramck communities. We are particularly targeting the growing business ecosystem by serving their security-related needs with top-quality products and trustworthy service, especially for new, upcoming, and established brick and mortar owners.

We plan to hire college students pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering to become our Systems Engineers so that we can offer rewarding careers in the Life Safety & Electronic Security Systems industry. A portion of the funds will help us to place a down payment on a service utility van to expand our operations, which will contribute to enriching our local economy.

We aim to train two part-time interns for a 6-month duration to learn from our seasoned engineers. This invaluable knowledge will enable them to gain firsthand experience with alarm installations in the field. Lastly, the funds will also allow us to scale our marketing efforts by participating in job fairs, networking events, and community-engagement initiatives that align with our mission to live, work, and play in a safer Detroit.

Patisserie Ci is a Detroit-based business specializing in the production of some of the most sought after vegan offerings available. From the decadent desserts to the delectable vegan cuisine, Chef Celeste Ivey, wows her clients time and again by incorporating fresh seasonal ingredients that captivate the senses and delight the palate. Patisserie Ci offers monthly live cooking classes, private catering, and meal prep services.

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The Pose Experience is the world’s first Mobile Selfie Boutique. We take the guesswork out of party planning by delivering a unique, interactive photo experience right to your doorstep.

At The Pose Experience, the World’s First Mobile Selfie Boutique headquartered in Detroit, our immediate growth plans focus on expanding our reach and deepening our community impact. We plan to invest $28,000 to purchase and outfit a second mobile selfie trailer to meet rising demand and create new job opportunities for Detroit residents. To strengthen our brand presence and attract more clients, we’ll allocate $6,000 toward strategic marketing and community engagement. Another $7,500 will support the expansion of our youth entrepreneurship program, The Pose Posse, which partners with Detroit Public Schools to teach students about business and creative innovation. We will dedicate $5,000 to staffing and training local talent and $2,500 to upgrade our photo technology and mobile equipment. The remaining $1,000 will fund free or discounted community pop-up events in underserved neighborhoods. These investments will allow us to scale sustainably, provide educational opportunities for Detroit youth, and continue spreading joy, creativity, and empowerment throughout our city.

Spectacle Society is redefining eyewear in Detroit. We’re the city’s only boutique offering handcrafted frames paired with a curated, one‑on‑one styling experience. From bold to classic, prescription or not, our expert Certified Optician fittings ensure every client leaves with eyewear that doesn’t just look good—it feels authentically like them.

Detroit deserves eyewear that celebrates individuality. Spectacle Society is Detroit's only optical boutique pairing handcrafted independent frames with personalized styling creating a shopping experience our clients call "a dream come true." This $50,000 grant will transform our small business into a community catalyst. We'll hire two Detroiters, training one in optical skills; a trade with strong earning potential but limited local training pathways. We'll invest in year-round marketing to reach Detroit neighborhoods where residents currently travel outside the city for quality eyewear. The result: more jobs, more trained professionals, expanded access to personalized vision care, and a thriving independent business reinvesting profits back into Detroit. We're not just selling glasses - we're building careers, keeping dollars local, and strengthening the kind of homegrown, independently-owned business Detroit is built on.

Detroit Body Garage is a neighborhood gym in the heart of the Motor City, located on Detroit's East side. We help you become a vehicle of change through movement and community. Together, we are rebuilding one part at a time through individualized coaching, small group classes and accessible community focused programming and events. At Detroit Body Garage we jumpstart your goals and help you cross your finish line.

After 10 years of helping Detroiters build strength through inclusive movement and connection, we want to expand our offerings to include an early childcare center and a pediatric therapy office. The Neighborhood Exchange will build healthy, emotionally regulated kids, families and adults through face-to-face exchanges in a shared space. To do this, we want to purchase a permanent building, which will allow us to expand our reach, provide stability, and continue proving that wellness can be a force for equity and joy in our city. This shared space - including Detroit Body Garage, Blessed Beginnings Learning Center, and Shalom Ministries (Pediatric therapy) is a new kind of innovation, offering an ecosystem of collaboration and support for all who enter the building. This is a new type of culture, not one of fierce independence but one of community and of loving your neighbor. A thriving neighborhood can provide a sense of belonging for its residents, a shared and common purpose.

The Garden Bug is the first Black female owned and operated garden center in Detroit. We purchased our building on a Wayne County foreclosure list in October 2014. I was born and raised in Highland Park, and still live there. We're located in the heart of Detroit and we cater to seasoned gardeners and beginners.

The garden bug is located in the city of Detroit in historical Rosedale park. We are the first black female owned and operated garden center in the city of detroit. We are 11 years strong, and over 14,000 customers have visited us since we've opened. We sell a variety of seasonal items in May June October and December. As we move through 2026 we will continue to encourage sustainability and how to grow and harvest your own produce. My immediate plans are to increase our inventory and signage to increase foot traffic. We also sell pumpkins, mums, all of your soil options, patio, yard decor, and of course the Christmas season with roping, wreaths, and grave blankets. We look forward to engaging you at our quaint garden center on Grand River

Love Travels Imports is a certified woman-owned business which supports artisans around the world by selling their handcrafted goods. Love Travels Imports exists to be a catalyst for change in the fight against global poverty. We do this by thoughtfully selecting partnerships where we have the greatest impact and ensure that artisans are paid fair wages to support themselves and their families.

When you shop Love Travels, you champion the economic advancement of women, educational opportunities for families, and greater sustainability for our world. Love Travels Imports is a certified woman-owned business which supports artisans around the world by selling their handcrafted goods.

Love Travels Imports exists to be a catalyst for change in the fight against global poverty. We do this by thoughtfully selecting partnerships where we have the greatest impact and ensure that artisans are paid fair wages to support themselves and their families.

Each product has a unique story to tell about the artisan and the beauty of their culture and traditions. Love Travels Imports supports the creativity and hard-working spirit of our artisans and gives our clients an outstanding product.

When you care about looking good, doing good and showing up with that special, unique and beautiful gift, Love Travels Imports is the place to visit.

We would use grant finds to help artisans, such as Christelle Paul whose Haitian workshop was destroyed by the gangs. Now the approaching storm is about to impact her in her new space in the Dominican Republic. We would hire: an assistant; marketing/social media person; and e-commerce help.

Ice Cream Detroit crafts liquor-infused and non-alcoholic ice creams and sorbets that celebrate flavor, luxury, and Detroit pride. Our scoop shop blends bold hospitality with inventive desserts—made to spark joy and community.

Ice Cream Detroit is poised for scalable, community-centered growth. We recently opened our flagship brick-and-mortar scoop shop in Midtown, where every liquor-infused ice cream and sorbet is made in-house-from scratch-with boozy-free, vegan, and dairy-free options that welcome all palates. With Detroit Elevate’s resources and the $50,000 award, I’ll invest in high-capacity equipment and packaging, expand our team and marketing, and launch a mobile cart to increase access across the city. We’ve seen a sharp increase in demand since opening, and this funding allows us to meet that momentum while staying true to our handcrafted process. Our growth means more local jobs, more local sourcing, and more opportunities to engage Detroiters through events, pop-ups, and flavor-making experiences.

Barber Station Detroit delivers top-notch HAIRCUTS, HAIRSTYLING and BRAIDING for men, women and children. Our licensed professionals create flawless looks in a relaxing, welcoming atmosphere with community-driven excellence —tailored to elevate your confidence and personal style.

As a proud small business in the heart of Detroit, we remain deeply committed to serving and uplifting our community. Our mission has always been to provide an upscale barbershop experience that is safe, clean, inclusive, and engaging for everyone who walks through our doors.
To further this mission, we will continue to invest in the next generation through our mentorship and apprenticeship programs—helping Detroit’s youth gain valuable skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose for their futures.

Our dedication to community service remains strong. We will keep giving back through back-to-school drives, free haircuts for the homeless, veteran discounts, and donations to local charity events.

Looking ahead, our next step in growth is to scale our current operation into a mobile barbershop. This expansion will allow our barbers to bring high-quality grooming services directly to clients and events across the city. More importantly, it will create new opportunities to serve the homeless, veterans, and others in need—meeting people where they are.

Through this growth, we aim to help shape the future of Detroit by empowering visionary entrepreneurs, creative leaders, and game-changing barbers and stylists who are ready to elevate the industry and their community. Thank You! Barber Station Detroit

Vesey Lane Goods is committed to bringing high quality greeting cards, gifts, and home decor to people and businesses—one keepsake at a time. We strive to honor the past, create a vibrant present, and cultivate memories that are treasured for generations to come.

Vesey Lane Goods is a Detroit-based stationery business located at 9920 Kercheval Avenue that specializes in high-quality greeting cards, gifts and home décor. We serve as an art-, culture-, family- and community-centred gathering space. Recently, we partnered with Luminesso Coffee to elevate our customer experience in our store with a new coffee service station.

The global stationery products market was valued at approximately USD $112 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to around USD $151.9 billion by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 4.4%.

Meanwhile the global coffee and café market was estimated at about USD $269 billion in 2024, with a projection to reach roughly USD $369 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of ~5.3%.

By receiving $50,000 dollars in grant funding, we will be able to expand our product line with additional branded greeting cards and goods, enter the wholesale market to tap into the stationery growth trajectory, and amplify our newly launched partnership with Detroit-based Luminesso Coffee to elevate the in-store experience and capture a share of the growing premium coffee market.

Full-Service Corporate & Special Events Catering, Private Chef Experiences, & Food Truck Service

With the $50,000 grant, new business plan, financial projections, and increased business awareness provided by Detroit Elevate, Plenti Pastas will be positioned for transformative growth and sustainability. This investment will enable us to enhance our catering operations through the purchase of a dedicated catering cargo van, allowing us to secure larger contracts, extend the reach of our locally sourced ingredients, and ensure the safe and efficient transport of our products. The addition of this vehicle will increase our operational capacity and strengthen our presence and community collaboration efforts across the Detroit metropolitan area. We will also secure a seasonal food truck location at Street Eats of Belle Isle, which will elevate our visibility, expand our customer base, and serve as a strategic step toward establishing a permanent food truck location. This initiative will further contribute to the revitalization of Detroit’s parks and public spaces. With these expansions, we will invest in staffing and workforce development, creating five new employment opportunities that offer skill-building and career growth for local residents. These efforts will allow us to deepen our community impact while fostering local economic development and strengthening Detroit’s culinary workforce. Ultimately, Plenti Pastas will continue advancing our greater mission of providing access to culturally inspired, high-quality meals in underrepresented communities, reflecting the spirit of diversity, inclusion, and community empowerment that defines Detroit.

Xclusive Hair Capitol is a driven beauty brand proudly serving the community for over a decade. Known for our deep knowledge of virgin hair & scalp health, we specialize in aloe vera–based hair care products & the best virgin hair extensions. Now, developing custom medical wigs while empowering clients through every stage of their hair journey, providing trusted solutions that restore confidence, beauty & identity.

Xclusive Hair Capitol LLC is a driven beauty brand proudly serving the community for many years. Known for our deep knowledge of health related hair care, virgin hair & scalp health, we specialize in aloe vera–based hair care products & hair product extensions. Now, developing custom medical wigs while empowering clients through every stage of their hair journey, providing trusted solutions that restore confidence, beauty & identity. To promote awareness, educate and empower Women on healthy hair care and revitalization while assisting those with health related hair loss issues.

Jensil creates thoughtfully designed first aid kits and bandages that are ready for real-life emergencies. From families to adventurers, our products provide safety, convenience, and peace of mind wherever life takes you. We also invest in community impact by creating jobs and youth education opportunities, making every purchase part of something bigger.

When I started Jensil, my goal was to make first aid kits people would actually love to carry—kits that are organized, affordable, and designed for real life. What began as a small idea to keep families and communities safe has grown into a trusted brand now available in over 265 Meijer stores across the Midwest. With support from Detroit Elevate, we plan to use this $50,000 award to purchase inventory, cover shipping and storage costs, develop new products, and expand our marketing and advertising to gain new customers.

Because of this grant, we’ll also be able to hire local youth through the Urban Alliance Summer Employment Program, giving them valuable work experience in our warehouse while learning about business and entrepreneurship. Jensil isn’t just about first aid—it’s about empowerment, opportunity, and showing Detroit’s next generation what’s possible when community and business grow together.

We offer delicious gourmet popcorn in an array of flavors from dessert inspired, caramelized and seasoned.

My strategic growth plan for Family Delight Popcorn involves transitioning the business from a home-based setup to a commercial space, reflecting the company's growth over the years. Due to limited space, I am currently unable to fulfill demand for community fundraising opportunities with my popcorn from various organizations. Expanding operations will necessitate investing in specialized equipment designed to handle increased workload and production. Establishing an e-commerce website is also crucial for facilitating a seamless ordering experience. With enhanced production capacity, we will be able to cater to a broader audience through online sales and product placement in stores.

One Percent Better LLC is a Detroit-based social enterprise that ensures no senior is left behind by technology or health access. We deliver on-site “Advancing Better Health Equity” programs—digital and telehealth literacy, physical wellness, mental/emotional support, and companion care—through monthly senior expos and building-based classes, training and hiring seniors as peer mentors to drive lasting adoption and community impact.

We’re ready to scale a proven model: the Advancing Better Health Equity Initiative—five pillars delivered on-site in senior buildings (digital/telehealth literacy, physical wellness, mental–emotional support, companion care). With Detroit Elevate’s coaching and network, we’ll finalize SOPs, stand up a train-the-trainer system, and complete our senior-friendly app MVP. The $50,000 powers tablets/hotspots, large-print guides, and hires: a Program Coordinator, Community Engagement Lead, and Data/Evaluation specialist. In 12 months we’ll activate 12+ buildings across Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, and Highland Park; train 10–15 paid senior peer mentors; and run monthly senior expos. Outcomes: 1,500+ elders engaged, 600+ device activations, 30%+ increase in patient-portal logins, and 60%+ telehealth readiness among completers. We’ll publish monthly outcome dashboards to secure renewals and health-system partnerships. This investment creates local jobs, keeps dollars in Detroit, and ensures no elder is left behind by technology.