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This year has been a transformative and deeply rewarding journey for me and my community capital awareness and curriculum project. From engaging with women in STEM-based entrepreneurship across multiple countries, to hosting workshops and attending pivotal conferences, I’ve had the privilege of learning, growing, and building connections with some incredibly passionate and innovative individuals. Each experience has reinforced my belief in the power of community-driven solutions to support small businesses and entrepreneurs.

A highlight was attending the IEDC Annual Conference in Denver, where I connected with economic leaders from Michigan and beyond, and learned invaluable lessons about tracking and supporting the economic impact of local businesses. NC3 and I also had the opportunity to host a workshop on Diversified and Aligned Community Investment Funds, which, despite some challenges, garnered strong engagement and feedback, confirming the importance of the work we’re doing. My first public talk in Plymouth, Michigan, and meetings with key stakeholders in Metro Detroit and mid-Michigan, further solidified the foundation for the curriculum’s rollout and implementation.

A particularly exciting development was the input I received from mid-Michigan stakeholders, who emphasized the importance of making the curriculum accessible to youth entrepreneurs. This feedback inspired new avenues of thought and has become a key focus in shaping the curriculum's future impact.

As I look ahead, the next phase of the project will involve expanding stakeholder engagement to West and North Michigan, ensuring the curriculum is responsive to the unique needs of each region. I’ll also be focused on rolling out the curriculum in Metro Detroit and mid-Michigan, while continuing to gather insights and refine our approach. Additionally, NC3 will be hosting our first state-wide conference, a critical milestone that will bring together diverse voices and set the stage for broader implementation across Michigan.

Reflecting on this year, I’m incredibly proud of the progress made, yet I’m equally energized by the potential that lies ahead. The connections, lessons, and collaborations I’ve built this year are just the beginning of a broader movement to empower entrepreneurs through community capital education—and I can’t wait to see where it takes us next.

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MidMichigan Stakeholders to Community Capital

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MidMichigan Stakeholders to Community Capital

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My second community capital stakeholder meeting with critical organizations in the mid-Michigan area was an incredibly insightful experience. As we gathered with these committed partners, it became clear that while our vision for the community capital curriculum was universal in its goals, the approach needed to be tailored to the unique needs of each region. What worked well for Metro Detroit’s diverse and dynamic business landscape may not be as effective in mid-Michigan, where communities and business ecosystems have different challenges and opportunities. This realization helped me understand the importance of flexibility and adaptability as we move forward with the curriculum.

One of the standout moments of the meeting was when the stakeholders in mid-Michigan emphasized the importance of making the curriculum youth entrepreneurship-friendly. This was a first for me, and it opened up an entirely new avenue of thought. It reminded me how vital it is to plant the seeds of entrepreneurial thinking early, especially in regions where the future of local economies hinges on the next generation of innovators and business leaders. The idea of equipping young people with the tools to understand and leverage community capital was both exciting and empowering. It’s something I’m eager to incorporate into the curriculum, knowing that supporting youth entrepreneurship can lay the foundation for a more resilient, locally-driven economy in the long run.

Reflecting on this meeting, I feel encouraged and energized by the collaboration. It reaffirmed that community capital isn’t just about the immediate needs of today’s businesses; it’s about fostering a mindset and skillset that will sustain future entrepreneurs as well. I’m grateful for the perspectives shared, and I’m even more motivated to ensure our curriculum is inclusive, adaptable, and capable of making a real difference for communities across Michigan.

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November - Community Capital & Entrepreneurship in Japan, Australia and India

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November - Community Capital & Entrepreneurship in Japan, Australia and India

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Speaking with women in STEM-based entrepreneurship from Japan, Australia, and India was an eye-opening and deeply enriching experience. Each conversation offered unique insights into the challenges and opportunities they face in their respective ecosystems. What stood out to me most was the shared drive and determination to seek nontraditional funding avenues—something that unites entrepreneurs globally, regardless of location. It was inspiring to see their creativity and persistence in finding new ways to fund their ventures.

However, I encountered a roadblock during my conversation with the Australian participants. I learned that Australia doesn't have a traditional entrepreneurship ecosystem like the U.S. or many other countries. Instead, innovation is often funneled through academia, which fundamentally shifts how funding and access to resources operate. This was a bit of a surprise, as it changes the entire framework for how entrepreneurs in Australia might pursue growth and scale.

Despite this, I was incredibly happy that these entrepreneurs had come to the U.S.—specifically to Michigan—to learn, train, and apply their newfound knowledge back home. It felt incredibly rewarding to be part of a space where international entrepreneurs are so eager to learn from the diverse funding models and community-building strategies we have in America. These exchanges not only broadened my own perspective but also reminded me how vital it is to foster global collaboration in the entrepreneurship world. I’m excited to see how these women will take what they’ve learned and make a real impact in their countries.

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Attending the IEDC Annual Conference in Denver was truly an inspiring and proud moment for me. It was incredibly encouraging to connect with fellow economic leaders from Michigan and beyond, and to see the shared passion for supporting local economies and businesses. The sense of camaraderie and dedication among the group filled me with pride, reminding me of the incredible work being done to empower communities, not just in Michigan, but across the country.

One of the most valuable takeaways from the conference was learning how other communities are tracking and supporting the economic impact of local businesses. It was fascinating to see how different regions are approaching this work, and it gave me new insights and strategies to apply to our own efforts. The exchange of ideas and best practices truly helped sharpen my own perspective and further solidified the importance of measuring and tracking community capital.

NC3 and I also had the opportunity to host a workshop focused on standing up Diversified and Aligned Community Investment Funds, which felt like a significant step forward for our mission. While I was proud of the information we presented and the great attendance and engagement from participants, I do wish I had been more directly involved with the deeper discussions. Some attendees seemed a bit lost, and I would have loved to see them leave with clearer, more actionable takeaways. Despite that, the positive feedback and thoughtful questions made it clear that our efforts were valued, and the workshop contributed to broader understanding of how to build sustainable, community-driven investment structures.

Reflecting on the experience, I feel both proud and motivated. It was a reminder of the importance of collaboration, learning from one another, and staying committed to creating impactful solutions for our communities. This conference has encouraged me to continue pushing forward with our projects, knowing that the work we’re doing is part of a larger movement that’s making a real difference.

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Delivering my first community-based public talk about NC3's ERC project, the Community Capital Accelerator and Curriculum, in Plymouth, Michigan, was a moment I’ll always cherish. Standing before state officials and local business leaders, I felt a mix of excitement and responsibility, knowing how crucial this conversation was for the future of community capital in the region.

What struck me most was the immediate engagement and genuine curiosity from both the officials and local business owners. Their questions, feedback, and enthusiasm validated the potential of the Community Capital Accelerator to not only provide financial resources but also to foster deeper connections within the local economy. It was clear that the curriculum could serve as a powerful tool to empower small businesses, especially those looking to explore nontraditional funding options.

I left the talk feeling energized, knowing that the seed for this initiative had been planted in a community eager for change. The positive reception and willingness to collaborate reassured me that NC3’s vision for the project was on the right track. This was just the beginning, and I’m excited to see how the conversations sparked in Plymouth will grow into tangible action.

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MetroDetroit Stakeholders to Community Capital

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MetroDetroit Stakeholders to Community Capital

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My first community capital stakeholder meeting with key organizations in the metro Detroit area was a pivotal moment for both NC3 and me. It felt like the beginning of something truly transformative, not just for the entrepreneurs we aim to support, but for the entire business ecosystem in the region. Coming together with such a diverse group of committed stakeholders—each with their own unique expertise and perspectives—was inspiring and humbling. The energy in the room was palpable, and it became clear that there was a shared commitment to making community capital education accessible to those who need it most.

In this meeting, we were able to break down our vision and translate it into actionable plans. I felt a strong sense of alignment with the organizations involved, all of whom are deeply invested in helping local businesses thrive. Their willingness to collaborate and their insight into the specific needs of entrepreneurs in the region gave me the confidence that we were on the right track. This isn’t just about delivering a curriculum; it’s about creating lasting change, fostering ownership, and equipping entrepreneurs with the tools they need to thrive—without relying on traditional funding structures that may not serve them.

Reflecting on that meeting, I’m filled with gratitude for the partnerships that are forming. It’s one thing to have an idea, but it’s another to see critical organizations coming together to make it happen. Their support and expertise are invaluable, and I’m excited to continue working alongside them to ensure our community capital curriculum is not just implemented, but embraced by the entrepreneurs and business support organizations in Detroit. This meeting was a reminder that, when we unite around a shared vision, we can truly make a difference in the communities we serve.

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Attending that conference was an absolute game-changer for me! I was practically buzzing with excitement the entire time. The opportunity to engage with regulatory officials who not only shared actionable insights but also provided invaluable resources and tools was beyond what I had hoped for. It felt like all the pieces of the puzzle suddenly clicked into place for my project on community capital education.

What really lit a fire under me was learning how I could base the rollout of my curriculum around real data—specifically data from the areas where it would be implemented. For the first time, I could truly see how the community capital curriculum could be customized and tailored to fit the unique needs of different neighborhoods and business ecosystems. This was such a pivotal moment because it meant the curriculum wouldn’t just be a one-size-fits-all solution; it could evolve and adapt to the realities of each community, making it infinitely more effective and relevant.

And then, to top it off, I gained access to a treasure trove of successful case studies that I could now refer to. The confidence these examples gave me was immense—I could draw direct comparisons, use proven strategies, and learn from the challenges others had faced. It was like I had just been handed a blueprint for success.

Looking back, this conference didn’t just inform my approach—it completely catapulted my project forward. The clarity I gained about how to structure, implement, and measure the impact of the curriculum was invaluable. I left feeling energized, focused, and ready to dive headfirst into the next phase of this journey. I know without a doubt that this experience set the stage for the success of the project and will continue to guide my approach as we move ahead.

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June - Community Capital & Entrepreneurship in Pakistan

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June - Community Capital & Entrepreneurship in Pakistan

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Speaking with women in STEM-based entrepreneurship from Pakistan was a deeply humbling experience. I was inspired by their resilience and determination to break through barriers in a field where they are often underrepresented. Their drive to seek nontraditional funding options—despite the challenges they face—spoke volumes about their commitment to innovation and empowerment.

As we discussed the possibilities of community capital and alternative funding models, I was struck by how resourceful and creative they were in finding ways to fund their ventures, even when conventional options seemed out of reach. It reminded me of the power of nontraditional funding not just as a means of financial support, but as a way to foster independence, community, and long-term growth.

Reflecting on these conversations, I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to connect with such inspiring entrepreneurs. Their courage and perseverance continue to fuel my own passion for bringing accessible funding tools to communities everywhere. It was a reminder that, regardless of location or background, entrepreneurship is a universal language of innovation and change.

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April - Talking with MSU Entrepreneurs about Community Capital

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April - Talking with MSU Entrepreneurs about Community Capital

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Learning about crowdfunding has been a game-changer for early-stage and first-generation entrepreneurs. For many of them, traditional funding avenues—like venture capital or bank loans—aren’t always accessible, leaving crowdfunding as a critical tool to help bring their ideas to life. Crowdfunding not only democratizes access to capital but also allows entrepreneurs to test their concepts, engage their communities, and build a supportive network around their ventures. It’s a way to generate both the financial resources and the social capital needed to get off the ground.

My project on community capital education aligns perfectly with this need. By teaching entrepreneurs how to leverage crowdfunding and other non-traditional funding sources, we’re equipping them with the knowledge to tap into their local networks and beyond. This approach helps level the playing field, empowering first-gen and early-stage entrepreneurs to fund their dreams without the typical barriers. Reflecting on this, I’m reminded of how vital it is to create spaces for these entrepreneurs to learn, grow, and connect with resources that can propel them forward—crowdfunding being one of the most accessible and impactful tools in their toolkit.

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March - Giving Founders a Taste of Capital

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March - Giving Founders a Taste of Capital

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Hosting a monthly pitch competition with a $1,000 prize has been an incredibly fulfilling step in making capital more accessible for local businesses. I’ve always believed that access to funding shouldn’t be restricted to a select few or dependent on traditional funding models. This competition not only provides immediate, nondilutive capital but also empowers local entrepreneurs to think outside the box and explore other non-traditional forms of funding.

Watching businesses pitch with such passion and creativity reminds me why this initiative matters. For many small business owners, the competition is more than just a financial boost; it's a chance to validate their ideas, build confidence, and see their potential through a new lens. It’s also a platform for them to explore alternatives to venture capital, grants, and loans—giving them the space to grow without giving up ownership or equity. I feel proud knowing that this small act of offering capital is helping to create a ripple effect of opportunity, innovation, and empowerment in our local business community.

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Meeting my new project leads for the Community Capital Project in Michigan in Portland was both a powerful and inspiring experience. It felt like the culmination of so many threads that I had been working on for years, finally coming together with a group of passionate, like-minded individuals. The event provided the perfect environment to spark fresh ideas and strategies to bring community capital education to small businesses in Michigan—a cause that I truly believe in.

What stood out the most was the incredible sense of collaboration that immediately took root. Each of the project leads brought a unique set of tools and resources to the table, which helped kick off the initial ideas and plans we would begin shaping together. As we navigated through conversations about the specific needs of Michigan’s small businesses, it became clear that community capital isn’t just a tool for economic growth, but a pathway for these businesses to thrive sustainably in their own communities.

The time in Portland wasn’t just about brainstorming; it was about aligning our vision, setting concrete goals, and understanding the collective strengths of our team. The resources and frameworks we discussed are critical to providing small businesses with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of raising and managing capital within their communities. We recognized that small businesses are the backbone of Michigan’s economy, and this project could be a game-changer for them, helping them tap into local resources, build stronger ties with their communities, and achieve long-term success.

Reflecting on the experience, I’m filled with a sense of purpose and gratitude. It was an opportunity to connect with people who share my passion for empowering small businesses and communities. The tools we now have in place provide not only the foundation for what’s to come but also the spark needed to create meaningful change. I'm excited about the impact this project will have in Michigan and beyond, and I feel deeply motivated to continue collaborating with my new team to bring these ideas to life. The energy from Portland was just the beginning—there's so much more to come, and I can't wait to see how everything unfolds.