$2,067,000
distributed to Black-led businesses and organizations.
Group Economics
By pooling our resources together, we can help fund Black-led businesses and non-profits that support our local economy.
Stable Neighborhoods
When funded projects become successful, the return on investment ultimately leads to neighborhood stabilization.
Self-Advocacy
Self-advocacy is the ability to speak up for yourself and the things that are important to you. We will control our narrative by strengthening the economic foundation of our communities.
ABOUT US
Fully aware that Detroiters of African descent have never lacked creativity, viable economic strategies, entrepreneurial zeal, or innovative business
models, Black Leaders Detroit aims to diminish the disparities by providing the one thing that has been lacking: financial support.

OUR VISION
A model and thriving city of fully empowered, responsive leaders and entrepreneurs reflective of its demographics.

OUR PLAN
We want 1 million members to contribute $1/week to fund our plan to change lives and impact black residents and communities in Detroit.

OUR MISSION
To provide funding for Black entrepreneurs in the city of Detroit.
WHY BLACK LEADERS DETROIT?
OUR CORE VALUES
Shared Power
When it comes to achieving true equity, the solutions that members of the community bring to the table are equally as valuable as funding.
Transparency
We believe trust is earned not given. We are transparent in our practices, processes, and decision making.
Black Excellence
We celebrate Black creativity and innovation. We take risks to establish a fair playing field.
We Are All Heroes
We recognize that everyone’s contribution has value and together is the ONLY way to save the day.

Dwan Dandridge during 2022's Ride For Equity

Detroit Drip Grant Winner

Ken Elkins, close-up

Dwan Dandridge during 2022's Ride For Equity
Over
350
Black-led businesses and organizations supported

BLD was interested in my vision, the performance of my business, and my future goals. I felt like, "Ok I'm being heard...like really being heard!" I can't explain how proud I felt that a organization that does not know me personally invested in me. Yes, I understand its a loan but no freaking interest? They are taking a chance on me!
Crystal Robertson
Crystal Robertson Insurance
And Financial Services, Inc.
I actually thought the [loan] process was pretty simple, quite honestly. As long as you have your documentation, you can move through the process quickly. I felt like I got updates timely. Larenz was on it! So, every time I updated a document, the system would let me know if I had a question. My phone calls were always returned. If I sent an email, the response was prompt. Simple.
Jacquie Munson Gaines
JMG Connects
My first interaction with Black Leaders Detroit was when you all knocked on the door and gave us a $2,000 grant. I was literally in my office packing, and Dwan put a check in my hands. And I knew from day one that Black Leaders Detroit is serious about that work.
.png)
Khary Kimani Turner
Coleman A. Young Foundation.

OUR TEAM

Dwan Dandridge
CEO/Founder

Ken Elkins
COO/Co-Founder

Sharea Ayers
Director of Membership & Events

Jarod Pratt
Development and Communications
Coordinator

Larenz Studavent
Loan Officer

Tiana London
Loan & Administrative
Specialist
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Kim Uhuru
Deputy Administrator
Michigan Attorney Grievance Commission

Quan Neloms
Career Counselor
Wayne RESA

Shannon Gaston
Director
Spirit of Detroit Project

Duan’te Anderson
Area Manager
Ford Motor Company

Dominique Campbell
Founder
Rise Up Higher
FUNDING BOARD

Rachael Allen
CEO
Operations School + OPSIDIA
%20v2.jpg)
Verne Perigord
Partner
PWC Consulting

Aprila Ringo
Education Assistant
Central Detroit Christian

Danielle North
Founder
Dream Studio Detroit

Kathy Morgan
Community Engagement Director
Flagstar Foundation

Leon Petty
Owner
Go Green

April Anderson
Owner
Good Cakes and Bakes

Jason Barnett
Senior Vice President
Invest Detroit

LaTrice McClendon
Detroit Director
Knight Foundation


Sarida Scott
Tosha Tabron
Assistant Professor
University of Detroit Mercy
Investment Officer
The Kresge Foundation
Danielle North
Executive Director
Degree Forward
Kathy Morgan
Corporate Engagement Specialist
Flagstar Bank
Leon Petty
Owner
Go Green
ALLY COUNCIL
Though the group that we are looking to provide financial support for is very specific, the supporters of the work come from varied backgrounds. We are glad to have committed allies that are invested in the work that we are doing. We have asked some of them to serve on an ally council. This council will serve as a vital piece when it comes to BLD creating access to capital for Black Entrepreneurs.

Doug Stewart
Executive Director
Max M. & Marjorie S. Fisher Foundation

Cindy Eggleton
Executive Director
Brilliant Detroit

Jim Tenzillo
Vice President
Invest Michigan

Jack Elsey Jr.
Partner & CEO
Detroit Children's Fund

Chris Lambert
CEO
Life Remodeled

Marcus Lyon
British Artist and Social Entrepreneur

Steve Cato
Director of Community Development
Wayne Metro Community Action Agency
OUR PARTNERS


























