Detroit City Wire

The City of Detroit, along with the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), has awarded over $450,000 in grants to 13 new businesses as part of Motor City Match's 28th round. This round marks the completion of the Community Violence Intervention (CVI) track, which allocated $55,000 in grants to three businesses led by individuals focused on driving positive change.

Round 28 is set to support 13 new brick-and-mortar businesses spread across 13 Detroit neighborhoods such as Aviation Sub, Evergreen-Outer Drive, Martin Park, and Cornerstone Village. This round presents a blend of businesses, including restaurants, cafes, a childcare center, a fitness facility, and a global empowerment brand, reflecting Motor City Match's mission to back diverse entrepreneurs and fuel neighborhood progress.

"Round 28 showcases the incredible diversity and entrepreneurial energy in the city of Detroit," commented DEGC President and CEO Kevin Johnson before the event. “From restaurants to childcare centers, these businesses are providing important services and bringing new energy to commercial corridors throughout our neighborhoods.”

The CVI track, a joint effort between the City of Detroit and six community violence intervention groups, uplifts enterprises initiated by individuals recommended by these organizations, particularly those who are returning citizens or have been impacted by the justice system. Approved businesses recommended through the CVI track can receive up to $150,000 in grant funding over two rounds. The three businesses awarded grants through the CVI track comprise a restaurant, a creative hub, and a fashion retailer. Additionally, a fourth business received technical assistance.

“These grants represent more than just financial support. They’re about creating opportunities in neighborhoods that need them most,” said Deputy Mayor Melia Howard before the event. “The CVI track empowers justice-impacted entrepreneurs to transform their lives while strengthening their communities. We’re proud to see these business owners creating positive change across Detroit.”

Motor City Match also supported 37 entrepreneurs with resources through its Business Plan, Develop, and Design tracks. These resources include business services, training, and personalized advising, aiding Detroit residents in pursuing their ambitions to establish brick-and-mortar stores in the city. In total, 51 businesses from all six City Council districts received backing during Round 28.

“Motor City Match continues to be a driving force in revitalizing Detroit’s neighborhoods by equipping small business owners with the resources they need to thrive,” stated Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield. “With each round of funding, more Detroiters are launching businesses, creating jobs, and breathing new life into our commercial corridors. This program’s success is a testament to our commitment to inclusive economic growth and to the entrepreneurs who keep our city moving forward.”

Since its inception in 2015, Motor City Match has awarded support to over 2,146 businesses, leading to the establishment of 181 new brick-and-mortar businesses citywide.

Motor City Match, alongside other small-business programs by DEGC, is fostering a sustainable environment encouraging new ideas. Motor City Match offers assistance in five areas: Plan, Develop, Design, Cash, and Restore, providing entrepreneurs with resources like business planning classes, site-selection support, financial planning, legal assistance, and design services for business development.