FLINT, MI — Flint & Genesee Business Bridge is working to increase the exposure and market access for Genesee County’s minority-owned small businesses.
I’m Building Something Consulting, LLC and the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance have partnered to create an online directory of Black, Indigenous and people of color-owned businesses in the area through the a $95,000 grant from the Ruth Mott Foundation.
“Small businesses are the building blocks of our neighborhoods and we heard residents when they told us support for small businesses is a priority,” said Raquel Thueme, president of the Ruth Mott Foundation. “The Flint & Genesee Business Bridge will help BIPOC owned businesses get the resources and connections they need to thrive.”
In 2021, the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy reported 1.9 million employees work for small businesses in the state of Michigan, making up 48.3% of Michigan employees.
Women made up 47.7% of workers in Michigan and owned 43.2% of business. Racial minorities made up 18.1% of workers in Michigan and owned 15.4% of businesses in the state.
Two small businesses that have already registered to be part of the directory are Vehicle City Onsite Fleet Service and Prestige Janitorial Services, both in Flint.
Prestige Janitorial Services is led by the husband and wife team, Jennifer and James Johnson.
They opened their business in 2012 and provide high quality commercial cleaning services. Prestige is located in downtown Flint and has continued their business with hiring Flint residents as their staff members.
Vehicle Onsite Fleet Service of Flint is a local, veteran and woman owned business. They provide commercial vehicle maintenance and repairs throughout Genesee County. They promise to send their technicians to business or roadside for emergencies to keep commercial fleet vehicle on the road.
“The Business Bridge also allows a business owner to connect with contracting leads and engage with other businesses through networking events and training,” said Tyler Rossmaessler, executive director of the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance.
Approximately 20% of small businesses fail within the first year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. By the end of their fifth year, 50% have faltered. After 10 years, just one-third of small businesses have survived.
Businesses may register for the online directory at developflintandgenesee.org/business-bridge/.
Read more at The Flint Journal:
Flint resident sings her blessings after celebrating her 100th birthday
Nearly 400 graduates celebrate as Mott Community College hosts in-person commencement ceremonies
Fenton celebrates 2022 prom aboard Detroit Princess Riverboat