August 29th 2025.
The Gilbert Family Foundation is making a significant impact in the Detroit community by investing more than $4 million in local Black-owned businesses. This generous contribution is part of the Foundation's mission to bring about positive change by working together with others. According to a report by AfroTech, the grants will be distributed in partnership with Black Leaders Detroit (BLD) and the Michigan Black Business Alliance (MBBA).
The timing of these grants couldn't be more fitting, as August is National Black Business Month. The funds will be used to support a diverse range of businesses by providing access to capital, technical assistance, and business coaching. One of the main beneficiaries of this investment is BLD, who will receive a $2.1 million grant to establish a no-interest lending program for Black real estate developers. This program, similar to The Building Fund, will offer up to $150,000 to support residential projects in the city.
Darnell Adams, the Vice President of Detroit Community Initiatives for the Foundation, believes that these initiatives are crucial in keeping the small business community in Detroit thriving. He stated, "Detroit's growth is dependent on a strong small business community, and these investments will ensure that our developers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses have the resources and opportunities they need to shape the future of our city and state."
While other cities with a large number of Black-owned businesses have faced challenges, Detroit has managed to persevere, even in the face of anti-diversity policies from the previous administration. A big part of this success is due to organizations like MBBA, which has been dedicated to helping businesses grow and flourish in the Great Lakes region. With over 50,000 Black-owned businesses in the area, their impact has been significant.
The partnership between the Gilbert Family Foundation and MBBA is a testament to their shared belief in the potential and resilience of Black entrepreneurs. MBBA's President and CEO, Charity Dean, expressed her excitement about the investment, stating that it will serve as a spark for second-stage entrepreneurs to turn their dreams into thriving realities. She added, "This support will enable them to scale their businesses, create more job opportunities, and make a lasting impact. We are thrilled to continue this journey together."
Dean also commended the Gilbert Family Foundation, calling them a "pillar of support" that has been in place for years. This new investment far surpasses the $1 million contributed by the Foundation in 2023 as part of a 10-year pledge to invest $500 million in the Rocket Community Fund, aimed at strengthening Detroit neighborhoods. To date, they have already committed $232 million.
In addition to their support for small businesses, the Gilbert Family Foundation has also been involved in other initiatives to empower the Detroit community. In 2021, they helped launch the Apple Developer Academy, a 10-month program in partnership with Apple and Michigan State University, providing real-world skills to over 125 students in areas such as coding, AI, design, marketing, and project management.
The Foundation's commitment to uplifting the Detroit community, particularly its Black residents, is a shining example of how private organizations can make a positive impact. As we continue to address the challenges of racial inequality and promote diversity in all aspects, partnerships like this will play a crucial role in achieving true progress.
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