Business Assistance was a transformative program designed to provide essential professional services to Detroit businesses severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. At a time when resilience and adaptability were critical for survival, this initiative stepped in to connect entrepreneurs
with qualified service providers, offering support in six key areas: finance,
food-based services, digital marketing, high-growth strategies, business operations, and architecture. These services were tailored to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Detroit's diverse business community.

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Through this program, $3.4 million was distributed to support
212 business assistance projects, helping businesses not only recover
from the devastating effects of the pandemic but also builda stronger foundation for sustainable future success. From helping a small restaurant develop a revamped business plan to navigate the new economic climate, to assisting a business in setting up a book keeping system, to enabling a retail shop to establish an e-commerce platform, the initiative empowered businesses to reimagine their operations and thrive in an evolving market.

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The funding for this vital initiative was made possible through the
City of Detroit's share of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds,
a federal response to support communities during unprecedented times. While the impact of this program was significant, the demand for assistance far exceeded the available funding, with requests outpacing resources by more than 3.5 times. This underscored the immense need for continued investment in Detroit’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

 

As we reflect on the outcomes of this initiative, the stories of resilience and innovation among Detroit’s small business community serve as a powerful reminder of what’s possible when resources are directed where they’re needed most.

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