About BREAKTHROUGH
digitalundivided's BREAKTHROUGH Program, sponsored by JPMorgan Chase & Co, provides founders with a deeper understanding of their customers, startup funding, growth marketing strategies, and networking opportunities to scale their ventures. Each company accepted into the program will receive a $5,000 grant*!
In order to qualify for the program, founders must:
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Have a business registered for at least a year
- Have a majority ownership of an established business with traction
- Have a technology component incorporated in business (website or mobile app)
- Generate a minimum of $50,000 annual business revenue
Selected founders will receive:
- A $5,000 grant*
- Guidance on scaling and expanding their business in virtual live sessions led by industry leaders.
- Feedback and insights from experienced mentors and advisors.
- A deeper understanding of the tools and resources necessary for establishing banking relationships
- Access to digitalundivided’s community of entrepreneurs.
- Increased visibility and recognition in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
- Business Advisory Sessions and post-program support.
*Program recipients receive a $5K cash grant that is subject to taxes.
KEY DATES
- Recruitment cycle: August 5 - September 22
- Selection of applicants: September 23 - October 4
- Notify Finalists: Week of October 7
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Onboarding of participants: October 7 - 21
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3-week program: October 22 - November 7 (Tuesdays and Thursdays)
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In-person Demo Day: Week of November 18
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Time commitment: 2,5 hours per session twice a week virtually
PROGRAM CURRICULUM
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Session 1: Program Overview and Fireside Chat
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Session 2: Strategic Planning - Optimizing Operations for Growth
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Session 3: Marketing and Branding Strategies + MWBE Certification
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Session 4: Sales and Negotiation Strategies
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Session 5: Funding Strategies + Building bank relationships & credit for loans
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Session 6: The Art of Pitching/Storytelling
Be at the forefront of innovation!
Join the waitlist for BREAKTHROUGH and know get early access to application for our next cohort!
Meet our new Atlanta Cohort
Black Women Moguls
Averri Liggins
Averri Liggins is the CEO of Black Women Moguls, a technology solutions-driven company. Her mission is to provide corporate solutions such as marketing strategies, marketing automation, CRM setup, website design, business processes, and automation for small businesses to enable them to achieve their business goals. Black Women Moguls was founded in 2019 when Averri recognized the need for more accessible resources and support for women in business. As founder & CEO of Black Women Moguls, Averri oversees the development and implementation of strategies that help clients streamline their operations and achieve success. Averri believes that empowering women entrepreneurs is essential for creating a more inclusive and prosperous business community. To date, Averri has been recognized by Georgia Trend, NCNW, Who’s Who of Black Atlantaand being featured on various media platforms. Additionally, she has been a business coach for AARP, Bridge for Billons, HoneyBook, and Goodwill.
Ready to Live Soaps
Ceal Hoskie
Ceal "Coach Kb" Hoskie is the visionary founder and CEO of Ready to Live Soaps, a creative wellness company dedicated to revolutionizing mental health care through innovative Soap Therapy experiences. After discovering the healing power of soap making during a challenging period in her life, Coach Kb channeled her passion into creating unique experiences that combine art therapy, mindset coaching, and soap making. These experiences promote mental wellness and provide a safe space for marginalized communities, young adults, veterans, and more. Under her leadership, Ready to Live Soaps has won multiple grants, achieved significant growth, and been featured on Good Morning America for its impactful community work. Coach Kb's dedication to healing through creativity continues to inspire and uplift countless individuals. She empowers black and brown women with her "Stronger Together Initiative while being a wife and mom of 4.
Love E
Evonya Easley
Evonya Easley is the founder of Love E LLC a retail tech company offering corporate styling and tech-enabled productions. Our mission is to service corporations and the professionals who work there to use their image as one of their tools for success. Our company was founded in 2010 when Evonya was able to turn her passions into profits full-time. She created her business to empower men & women to feel confident in how they show up in their personal & professional lives to accomplish their goals. As the CEO Evonya oversees sales, marketing, operations & delegation to the team empowering them to carry out the vision of the company. Evonya believes that by improving her clients' confidence they see the transformation in all areas of their lives. To date, Evonya has been featured in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Sheen Magazine, Upscale Magazine, Atlanta News First, Simply Buckhead, & more.
Kahmune
Jamela Acheampong
Jamela Acheampong is the founder of Kahmune, a luxury marketplace for skin tone footwear and leather products.Her mission is to provide a true nude option for all women of all complexions. Kahmune was founded in 2016 after a 4 hour search for nude skin tone products for deeper complexions proved futile. Forced to purchase a pair fo white pumps and paint them to match her skin tone, Jamela quickly decided to create a brand that would ensure no other woman had to do the same. As founder & CEO of Kahmune, Jamela oversees everything from style design to business & financial operations. Jamela believes that all women deserve to have an option when it comes to finding the perfect nude. Having spent the majority of her childhood living overseas, it is this international experience that she cites as the reason she is so passionate about advocating for diversity and inclusion. To date, Kahmune has been recognized by the BeyGood foundation, StitchFix Elevate, Shea Moisture & many other organizations. Kahmune has been featured in over 75 print and online publications as an industry leader which include Forbes, Cosmopolitan, Elle, Town&Country, & Essence.
The Look By Joi
Joi Mebane
For over 21 years, Joi Mebane has been a force in the beauty industry. She is the founder of The Look By Joi, a thriving cosmetics line. Joi is also a highly sought-after educator, sharing her expertise at industry trade shows worldwide. She has further solidified her reputation by conducting her own successful 15-city educational tour. Her focus specific areas of beauty expertise,brow artistry, and permanent makeup. Joi empowers her community of over 10,000 beauty professionals by providing them with the knowledge and tools to make strategic business decisions, and allowing them to focus on achieving their goals.
The Rebrand Creative Agency
Kayla Life
Kayla Life is the Founder and CEO of The Rebrand Creative Agency LLC, a social enterprise dedicated to empowering community potential through creative excellence. Her mission is to harness the transformative power of branding and technology to uplift and support community-based entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and educational institutions. The Rebrand Creative Agency was founded in 2020 when Kayla identified a gap in culturally responsive and impact-driven branding solutions for underrepresented communities. As the CEO, Kayla oversees strategic direction, resource allocation, and high-level management, ensuring that the agency’s services align with its mission of fostering innovation and growth. Kayla believes that creativity and technology can drive social change, making a lasting impact on communities. Kayla has been recognized for her leadership and community impact, including raising significant funds and securing large-scale grants for various organizations. She has been featured in numerous industry publications and platforms for her work in technology education and branding.
Bites and Bevs Media
Madelynne Ross
Meet Madelynne Grace, Owner of Bites and Bevs Media, and food photographer turning meals into masterpieces through her passion for both culinary artistry and visual storytelling. Each photo goes beyond a simple capture, revealing the essence of flavor and the meticulous art of plating showcasing the beauty, vibrancy, and detail in every dish. Madelynne moved to Atlanta in 2012 with a degree in Sports PR, but a newly discovered love for hospitality. She picked up the camera as a hobby but turned it into her thriving company Bites and Bevs Media with a team of photographers, videographers and food stylists. Her work is a celebration of the belief that food is art, stimulating not just taste buds but the visual senses. Every plate is her canvas.
Precis Screening
Michelle Foye
Michelle Nash is the Founder and CEO of ITS Enterprises, Inc., a company dedicated to Bridging the Digital Divide. My goal to making technology fun, safe, and accessible for everyone, regardless of background or technical knowledge. ITS Enterprises founded in 2012 when Michelle realized that older adults and underserved individuals were feeling left behind in technology and had choose to sit back while the train passed them by. She realized that with the way technology was advancing this was not an option. As the Founder & CEO of ITS Enterprises, Inc. Michelle oversees the business matters as well as creating, training and promoting the business. Michelle Nash believes that bridging the gap in technology is critical today . She is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone feels empowered to learn and utilize technology. Michelle Nash, Founder and CEO of ITS Enterprises, Inc. has been awarded a national Backing Black Business cash grant.
ITS Enterprises, Inc.
Michelle Nash
Michelle Nash is the Founder and CEO of ITS Enterprises, Inc., a company dedicated to Bridging the Digital Divide. My goal to making technology fun, safe, and accessible for everyone, regardless of background or technical knowledge. ITS Enterprises founded in 2012 when Michelle realized that older adults and underserved individuals were feeling left behind in technology and had choose to sit back while the train passed them by. She realized that with the way technology was advancing this was not an option. As the Founder & CEO of ITS Enterprises, Inc. Michelle oversees the business matters as well as creating, training and promoting the business. Michelle Nash believes that bridging the gap in technology is critical today . She is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone feels empowered to learn and utilize technology. Michelle Nash, Founder and CEO of ITS Enterprises, Inc. has been awarded a national Backing Black Business cash grant.
Buttafly Kisses Vegan Treats
Mistye Momon
Mistye Momon is the founder of Buttafly Kisses Vegan Treats, a trailblazing vegan baking company. At Buttafly Kisses Vegan Treats, our mission is to revolutionize the perception of healthy eating by showcasing the vibrant flavors, creativity, and indulgence of plant-based and vegan desserts. We are dedicated to providing high-quality, delicious treats that cater to those with dairy and egg allergies, individuals committed to a healthier lifestyle, and children who deserve to celebrate special moments without feeling excluded. Buttafly Kisses was founded in 2016 when Mistye became frustrated with the lack of vegan dessert options available, especially vegan cakes and cupcakes for her children’s birthday celebrations. As founder and CEO of Buttafly Kisses, Mistye encompasses a wide range of tasks including strategic leadership (setting and implementing business goals), operational management (leading new product development and quality control), financial oversight (managing the company’s budget and overseeing financial planning), marketing and sales (maintaining the brand and expanding market reach), customer and community engagement (ensuring excellent customer service and building community relationships), fostering a positive and inclusive workplace environment, ensuring the company complies with regulations including risk management, and lastly innovation and growth (continuous improvement with the goals of exploring opportunities for business expansion). Mistye is driven by a passion for creating delicious, high-quality vegan desserts and believes that everyone deserves access to food that promotes healthier eating habits and accommodates dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste. She is committed to inspiring her community, especially children with allergies and those choosing a plant-based lifestyle, to enjoy and embrace vegan treats, making them accessible to everyone. To date, Mistye and Buttafly Kisses Vegan Treats have been recognized as 2022 Georgia’s Best Specialty Restaurant, as a finalist in America’s Favorite Chef Competition and as a leader in the Atlanta Vegan baking community. Mistye has been featured in Voyage Atlanta Magazine, Canvas Rebel Magazine, Sevananda Natural Foods Market Newsletter, interviewed on The Streetprenuer Podcast, and a guest speaker on the Vegan Kids Nutrition podcast as well as a speaker at the 2024 Vegan Women Summit in Hollywood, CA.
LUXE LIST MEDIA
Nyah Chapman
Nyah Chapman is the Founder and Creative Director of LUXE LIST ATLANTA, a luxury media platform and creative agency. Her mission is to bridge the gap between culture and luxury by offering subscribers access to a network of high-net-worth individuals, brands, experiences, and premium content in affluent cities worldwide. LUXE LIST ATLANTA was founded in 2021 after Nyah recognized the imbalance of underrepresentation in the luxury space while working for a major luxury publication. As Founder and Creative Director, Nyah secures new businesses, orchestrates digital campaigns, and improves the platform's user experience, leveraging her two decades of experience in luxury strategy and technology. Nyah believes that creating a space where individuals from all backgrounds feel seen, heard, and valued in the luxury conversation is long overdue. To date, Nyah Chapman has been featured in Jezebel Magazine, Simply Buckhead Magazine, Plannthat, Better Business Bureau Atlanta chapter, and received the 2024 Tastemaker award from Meals on Wheels Atlanta!
Good Help Here
Parys Grigsby
Parys A. Grigsby is the founder of Good Help Here, a boutique administrative and project management agency. Her mission is to equip small teams to do impactful work. Good Help Here was founded in 2021 when Parys realized that after a decade of providing executive support in various industries, including nonprofits, social justice, and philanthropy, she was most enthused by working with lean, mission-driven teams. The company specializes in systems-building, day-to-day executive operations, and project and event management. As founder, Parys sets the Good Help Here's mission, vision, and values, determines thoughtful next steps for positioning in the business marketplace, and advises on best practices in the project management space. Parys believes that small teams can make a positive impact on the world–and she's here to help.
The Executive Learning Lab, LLC
Patricia Morgan
Dr. Patricia Morgan is the CEO/Founder of The Executive Learning Lab (TELL), a Black and woman-owned consulting firm in Atlanta, GA, specializing in Organizational Development, Leadership Development, and Sustainable Change. Her mission is to create more inclusive and equitable workplaces, schools, and communities. TELL was founded in 2020 when Dr. Morgan recognized a critical need for systemic change in organizations to address barriers to equity and inclusion. As the owner, Dr. Morgan oversees organizational assessments, designs and delivers Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Leadership Development training programs, and provides ongoing coaching and support to leadership teams. Dr. Morgan believes that fostering a sense of belonging is essential for organizational success and is committed to helping organizations create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all. To date, Dr. Patricia Morgan has been recognized as a 40 Under 40 Leader by the Georgia State University Alumni Association and recently received the Outstanding Service Award from the Environmental Education Alliance of Georgia. She has also been featured in numerous academic publications.
ARNAV Biotech Corp
Pooja Tiwari
Pooja Tiwari is the Co-founder and COO of ARNAV Biotech, developing vaccines and therapeutics against viral infectious diseases including Flu, respiratory syncytial virus, Dengue and Hepatitis B. Her mission is to help prevent the next pandemic and develop antiviral therapeutics against infectious viral diseases including respiratory syncytial virus that infects more than 60M people, mostly children under 5. ARNAV Biotech was founded in 2020 when Pooja with her mentor were discussing the treatment options for then ongoing COVID-19 and realized the need for therapies for more than 200 such viruses. As founder & COO of ARNAV Biotech, Pooja oversees their therapeutics pipeline development as well as the business management. Pooja believes that no children or adults should suffer from infectious diseases or have fatal out-comes. Pooja has been awarded a Women Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2023 by Govt. of Karnataka State in India and has won a QuicknFire Challenge award by Johnson and Johnson.
Big Tings Inc.
Trey Anthony
Trey Anthony is the Founder and CEO of Big Tings Inc., a company dedicated to empowering and uplifting individuals through transformative wellness initiatives and storytelling. Her mission is to inspire and support mental well-being, particularly for women of color who face challenges such as depression, anxiety, and disruptions to their mental health. Big Tings Inc. was founded when Trey recognized the need for accessible mental health resources tailored to women of color and their unique experiences. A key feature of the company is Black Girl in Love (with Herself), an empowering wellness brand. As the driving force behind Big Tings Inc., Trey oversees the development of wellness content, workshops, and keynote speeches that resonate deeply with her audience. She believes that authentic storytelling and community support are essential for fostering resilience, personal growth, and dismantling the stigma of mental health challenges. Trey has been recognized for her impactful work. She has been featured in prominent media outlets, including her viral TEDx talk “Coming Out of Your Box.” She was recently named one of the top 100 Black women to watch. Trey has been featured on NBC, ABC, and Fox, and in Forbes magazine. She is also a contributing writer for the Huffington Post and recently received a Walk of Fame star from the city of Brampton, recognizing her contribution to the arts. Trey is the recipient of four NAACP Awards and the Eve Ensler Award. Her book “Black Girl In Love (with Herself),” published by Hay House, was named a top pick by Essence Magazine.
Meet our Detroit Cohort
Denise Everett
Global Technology Associates LTD
Mosaic Masterminds
April Ruiz
Mosaic Masterminds helps learners of all types improve their academic performance and higher-level thinking by offering unique and individualized learning experiences that increase personal growth and self-esteem. Mosaic Masterminds was founded in 2003 in Grand Rapids, Michigan as a response to an increase in parents seeking academic assistance for their children. It began by providing one-on-one, in-person tutoring services to supplement traditional classroom instruction for students in the Greater Grand Rapids Area. Mosaic Masterminds has grown to offer in-person and virtual services for learners of all ages in 13 states. The Mosaic Masterminds team consists of a network of talented and experienced educators who are passionate about helping others learn. Its back-to-basics model allows for diverse instruction approaches and facilitates creative learning. The Mosaic Masterminds tutoring network operates differently from other educational support service companies that may use uniform approaches to tutoring all students. We believe in personalized sessions in caring environments where students can focus according to their learning styles and needs.
NORWEST GALLERY OF ART LLC
Asia Hamilton
In 2018 Asia opened the Norwest Gallery of Art a community-based contemporary art museum that focuses on art from the African Diaspora. As founder and director Asia chose to locate the Norwest Gallery of Art in the Grandmont Rosedale neighborhood of Detroit because the community had been overlooked in the recent revitalization efforts that focused primarily on the downtown area. Asia also lives and grew up where the Gallery is, and so understands as a resident as well as a business owner the importance of having a viable, vibrant, walkable business community to advance the people. The Gallery has turned the neighborhood into an international hub for contemporary art with plans to expand its efforts as a staple for creative arts and culture in the community. Asia has also participated in many community arts projects, and is a 2018 and 2021 Knight Arts Challenge winner.
ESTELLA'S CUISINE LLC
Chantele Jones
Chantele Jones is the founder and CEO of Estella’s Vegan Dessert Boutique, Detroit’s first all vegan bakery. Our mission is to redefine the dessert experience by bridging healthier options with delicious flavors. Estella’s Vegan Dessert Boutique was founded in 2020, during the pandemic, to solve the problem of their being a lack of quality and delicious vegan baked goods. As founder and CEO of Estella’s Vegan Dessert Boutique, Chantele oversees the day to day operations. Ensuring emails are responded to and orders are fulfilled. Chantele believes that by providing healthier choices, we empower our communities to lead happier, stronger, and more balanced lives. To date, Estella’s Vegan Dessert Boutique has been recognized by PETA for they’re red velvet pound cake and featured in VegNews, Crains Detroit, The Michigan Chronicle, and Travel Niore.
Crummies Sweets And Treats LLC
Charlita Knox
Charlita Knox is a certified pastry chef from Schoolcraft College and the owner of Crummies Sweets And Treats LLC DBA Crummy's Cake Supply & Studio. She specializes in custom scratch cakes and offers cake supplies and classes for those interested in learning baking and decorating from scratch. Charlita's passion for baking began in her childhood when her grandmother taught her how to bake from scratch. As an adult, Charlita honors her grandmother's legacy by sharing her teachings and recipes with other bakers around metro Detroit.
ANGELS ONLY
Crystal Angel
Crystal Angel is the founder and CEO of ANGELS ONLY. Her mission is to disrupt the medical apparel industry by providing modern stylish uniforms that give women in healthcare confidence and a sense of expression! ANGELS ONLY was founded in 2020 during the pandemic after working in healthcare at DMC’s Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan. As founder & CEO of ANGELS ONLY, Crystal oversees all aspects of the business currently ranging from marketing, fulfillment, content creation and customer service. Crystal believes that after working in healthcare and wearing scrub uniforms herself it is important to feel your very best on the job ;because when you look good you feel good and when you feel good, you perform better! To date, Crystal has been recognized by the Detroit Pistons, Shea Moisture, Business Insider, and many large platforms after her numerous viral videos
Crystal Marie Events LLC
Crystal Marie Young
A Vibrant Destination wedding planning, corporate event management, and event branding studio focusing on well-organized planning, strong execution, stylish design, and most importantly—YOU! Crystal Marie’s day to day duties include researching, selecting and reserving venues, negotiating contracts, creating detailed run of shows, securing various permits/licenses, coordinating logistics, managing budgets, cybersecurity updates, and ensuring that all aspects are seamless. This requires soliciting bids, writing RFPs, comparing services and costs, and signing service contracts. Crystal Marie is a risk taker and believes when fear is staring her in the face, she believes in three core values that still steer her business today—fearless, focused, and feminine. Crystal Marie Events has been awarded Couple’s Choice 2023, Top Ranked Wedding Vendors in 2022, 2020 Wedding Rule Editor’s Choice Awards, Best of Detroit Event Planners in 2019 and 2015 and the Brand It Well Award in 2017. Crystal Marie and her clients have been featured in Essence Magazine, Michigan Meeting + Events Magazine, The Michigan Chronicle, LadyBossBlogger.com and The Detroit Free Press. Crystal Marie received her Bachelors of Science Degree from Virginia Union University in 2004 and Nutrition and Food Science from Madonna University in 2009. She is also an author of three event related books which has deemed her as an event expert around the globe.
Global Technology Associates LTD
Denise Everett
Denise Everett is the CEO of Global Technology Associates LTD, a company with a dedicated focus on contract, direct hires, and temp-to-hire services for industries including healthcare, automotive, construction, and state and local government. The company was founded in 1988 by the previous owner who retired in 2018. Denise purchased the company after working there for 12 years and currently holds roles as Chairman of the Board, CEO, and heads the HR department. At Global Technology Associates LTD, Denise and her team work as change agents, striving daily to improve the lives of others. Denise's personal passion lies in enhancing the well-being and quality of life for individuals.
Blue Dove Pharmacy
Jacqueline Sakaya
Establishing Blue Dove Pharmacy on a foundation of community altruism, Jacqueline Mbwille Sakaya is a longstanding pharmacy professional with over 19+ years of experience optimizing practice compliances, improving team unification/diversity, and advancing new levels of patient care. Originally from Tanzania and coming to the US in pursuit of a better life and opportunity, Jacqueline has brought with her an innate value of hard work and perseverance. Her vision to foster larger-picture change became the catalyst for Jacqueline to earn her Doctor of Pharmacy at Howard University College of Pharmacy in 2004, along with a Healthcare MBA from George Washington University in 2021. Furthermore, Jacqueline undertook advanced certifications in Pharmacogenetics and Pharmacist Immunization Delivery. Since then, Jacqueline made Belleville, Michigan her home and has worked in several practices, to later blending that dynamicity to develop Blue Dove Pharmacy in 2020. Collectively, Jacqueline’s unprecedented efforts in optimizing practice ethics, patient care, and field diversity have led to measurable results. This includes closing gaps between individualized care and department development, sales performance increases, forming mutually respected community connections, and highlighting the notions of sustainable growth through intentional integrity. In addition, this has led to her earning awarded recognition by Walgreens for excellent customer service and for her dedication to academic success and support of the Howard University Center of Excellent Programs. Alongside operating Blue Dove Pharmacy, Jacqueline serves as a preceptor for PharmD students at the University of Michigan and Wayne State College of Pharmacy, is an active member of the Michigan Pharmacy Association, the American Pharmacist Association, the Westland Chambers of Commerce, and is a board member of the nonprofit DCDI. In addition, Jacqueline is a service volunteer at the MPA Government affair Committee and the MPA Public affair Committee.
Loving Locks LLC
Janelle Wilson
Janelle Wilson is the owner of Loving Locks an independent company providing Sisterlocks® services, products, classes, space share (chair rental)/ private suite rental, and mentorships. At Loving Locks LLC, our mission is dedicated to providing exceptional Sisterlocks® services, premium products, comprehensive classes, flexible space share options, and mentorship opportunities. We celebrate and nurture the beauty of natural hair while fostering a supportive and inclusive community for people with tightly textured hair." "Empowering Natural Beauty Through Education, Innovation, and Community The company was founded after I became a certified Sisterlocks consultant in 2008 and an LLC in 2016. I left a government job in 2020 to provide Sisterlocks services full time, and train for the National Sisterlocks organization.My role as owner covers many responsibilities, such as customer experience, providing services, scheduling, teaching classes, managing rentals, and mentoring new students. Janelle envisions a future where natural hair is celebrated and embraced, where our Sisterlocks® services, premium products, educational classes, versatile space-sharing options, and mentorship programs inspire confidence, creativity, and community. To date Janelle Wilson has been a guest on Fox 2 New "The Noon" to talk about business. She has been featured on Every Strand Counts with Dana Wilson host. Janelle is a 2024 awardee of the SBDC Best Small Business by Michigan Celebrates Small Business.
Social Solutions LLC
Jazmine Vila
Jazmine Vila is the dedicated Founder of Social Solutions, a leading virtual assistance and social media management agency. Her mission is to empower entrepreneurs by providing efficient virtual assistance and effective social media management services. Social Solutions was founded in 2022 when Jazmine recognized the need for small businesses to streamline administrative tasks and enhance their online presence. As founder and CEO of Social Solutions, Jazmine oversees all business aspects, ensuring clients receive exceptional service tailored to their needs. Jazmine believes in supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive in the digital age, enabling them to focus on what they do best.
Verbatim
Lakeshia King
Lakeshia “K.Jai” King is the founder and owner of Verbatim, LLC, a custom print apparel business…where the journey of women is empowered through words on all forms on wearables like, Tshirts, hoodies, hats, jackets and more. Her mission is to advance self expressionism, while resolving limited beliefs for women who may feel silenced, hopeless and vocally oppressed. Verbatim was founded in January of 2021 by K.Jai King who oversees the operations and day to day business. K.Jai believes that Verbatim fills the gap on how society views the lifelong journey of women. By offering women the opportunity to reclaim their voices through art, the power of words and quality clothing for all sizes. K.Jai has been featured on WDIV Channel 4 Live in the D (2023) and in Visit Detroit for the Cadillac Square holiday market (2023). The Detroit Free Press and downtown Detroit Partnership for the 2024 NFL Draft.
Your Personal Jeweler LLC
Patricia Carruth
Patricia (Trish) Carruth is a third generation jeweler and Owner of Your Personal Jeweler. Taking her passion for fine jewelry and love of the wedding industry her business specializes in creating bespoke engagement rings & wedding bands that tell her clients unique love stories. Recently her love of design has expanded & she has started creating collections of her own. Her latest collection, Le Saphir, debuted at JCK Las Vegas 2022 and is comprised of teal sapphire engagement rings. Her expertise has earned her numerous accolades, including winning the prestigious BIJC's Together By Design competition and Jewelers of America 20 under 40. Trish continues to push boundaries and redefine personalized luxury. Her downtown Royal Oak showroom is home to her many designs as well as other rising designers. Her unconventional approach to how a jewelry store should function has drawn in clients from all over applauding her attention to a personalized experience.
Castle Risk Management & HR Consulting, LLC
Princess Castleberry
Princess Castleberry, CEO of Castleberry Global, leads a wellness and risk management speaking, training, and consulting firm established in 2019. Initially a fractional risk and HR consultancy, the firm pivoted during the pandemic to meet demand. Princess's expertise led to features in Fast Company and TEDxDetroit, sparking her passion for professional speaking and facilitation. She developed the leadership model "Every Leader is a Risk Manager™" and several signature programs, steering the firm toward collaborative learning experiences for large organizations at various events. As the founder and CEO, Princess manages instructional design, delivers live and virtual performances, and forges strategic partnerships. She believes wellness and risk management are vital for prosperous lives and organizations, asserting that equipped leaders make sound decisions, manage stress, and resolve conflicts effectively. She is recognized as a Comcast R.I.S.E. Grant Recipient and holds WBE, MBE, and WOSB certifications. Featured in Fast Company, Supply and Demand Chain Executive, and Benefits Pro, Princess is a sought-after speaker internationally.
Prestige Promotions LLC
Sandra Kelley
Sandra C. Kelley is the Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Prestige Promotions, LLC, a leading provider of promotional products and innovative branding solutions tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, colleges, and universities. Her mission is to forge enduring partnerships with clients, empowering their marketing and branding strategies as an integral extension of their team. Founded in 2004, Sandra's strong entrepreneurial spirit and extensive experience with GM propelled her to establish the company. As COO, Sandra strategically drives the company’s growth, manages comprehensive order processes, and cultivates client relationships. Sandra believes that business growth is built on relationships, and that successful businesses are based on trust, and a deep understanding of client needs. Sandra was privileged to serve as the 2021 President of the Michigan Promotional Professionals Association and has been honored with nominations for the Minority-Owned Business of the Year in 2022 and 2023 by the Flint & Genesee Chamber reflecting her commitment to excellence and leadership.
EWP Coaching and Consulting
Shonna Amos
Shonna Amos is the Founder and Principal Consultant at EWP Coaching and Consulting. EWP’s mission is to support organizations and entrepreneurs with professional and leadership development that goes beyond theory and mantras. EWP was founded in December of 2021 when Shonna was led by a deep desire to Explore What’s Possible®. Compelled to connect to her professional passion and support a diverse set of clients, the company officially launched in March of 2022. As the Founder and Principal Consultant, Shonna oversees business development and program development, delivery, and evaluation. Shonna believes that taking the time to truly listen to the needs of her customers allows EWP to create customized solutions that support sustainable learning, growth, and change. Shonna has been featured on numerous podcasts, was named a Top Coach in Detroit in 2022, served as a visiting Coaching Expert for Morning Brew Learning’s leadership development programs, and is currently serving her third term on the Board of Directors for the International Coaching Federation’s Michigan Chapter.
For informational/educational purposes only: digitalundivided is not affiliated with JPMorgan & Chase. The views expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of (or endorsement by) JPMorgan & Chase. Views and strategies described may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended as specific advice/recommendation for any individual. digitalundivided is solely responsible for the information presented. JPMorgan Chase & Co. or its affiliates and/or subsidiaries do not warrant its completeness or accuracy. You should carefully consider your needs and objectives before making any decisions and consult the appropriate professional(s). Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results. The material is not intended to provide legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. product or service.