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Detroit Local NewsDetroit awards over $450,000 to 13 new businesses through latest Motor City...

Detroit awards over $450,000 to 13 new businesses through latest Motor City Match grants

Detroit, Michigan – The City of Detroit, along with the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), has significantly influenced the local economy with the most recent round of Motor City Match grants, which totaled over $450,000 to 13 new businesses. This significant cash increase ends the Community Violence Intervention (CVI) track—a targeted initiative supporting companies run by people dedicated to promoting good community improvements and marks the 28th round of prizes.

Ranging from restaurants and cafes to a childcare center and a fitness center, diverse  new business activities across 13 Detroit neighborhoods will profit from this round. The wide range of companies shows Motor City Match’s continuous dedication to fostering different entrepreneurial abilities and supporting local growth.

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

The wrapping up of the CVI track—a joint project between the city and six local community violence intervention groups—was a unique feature of this round. Particularly for people affected by the justice system, this approach seeks to enable entrepreneurs to build profitable businesses and drive change in their neighborhoods. While a fourth got technical help, three companies—including a restaurant, a creative center, and a fashion store—received funds resulting in $55,000 via the CVI track.

“These grants represent more than just financial support. They’re about creating opportunities in neighborhoods that need them most,” said Deputy Mayor Melia Howard, prior to 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.”

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Apart from financial incentives, the Motor City Match program offered thorough business assistance to 37 more entrepreneurs via its Business Plan, Develop, and Design tracks, which include a variety of services from business training to one-on-one counseling. Reflecting donations throughout all six City Council districts, this round of funds helped 51 companies in total.

“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,” said 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.”

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Motor City Match has given help to more than 2,146 companies since it was founded in 2015, which has helped to open 181 new brick-and-mortar stores throughout Detroit. A broad spectrum of support is offered by the program, backed by several local and national financial institutions, via its five tracks: Plan, Develop, Design, Cash, and Restore, therefore addressing anything from company planning and site selection to legal aid and financial planning.

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Motor City Match is a joint endeavor of the City of Detroit, DEGC, the Economic Development Corporation of the City of Detroit, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and various community development financial institutions and businesses. This continuous project empowers local company owners and helps to create a strong environment for small enterprises, hence supporting the dynamic expansion and diversity of the city. MotorCityMatch.com has further details about the program and next application rounds.