Small Businesses Receive $50K Boost from Búsqueda Program

New capital and support aims to drive growth for Detroit-area entrepreneurs

Apr. 19, 2026 at 9:05am

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A minimalist studio still life photograph featuring a stack of crisp $100 bills, a sleek metal business card holder, and a modern fountain pen arranged elegantly on a clean, white background, conceptually representing the financial resources and tools needed for entrepreneurial success.Búsqueda's $50,000 small business grants aim to provide both the capital and guidance needed to help Detroit entrepreneurs take their companies to new heights.Today in Detroit

The Búsqueda program, a Detroit-based initiative, is providing $50,000 grants and wraparound support services to help small businesses in the region expand their operations and create new jobs. The program is targeting underserved entrepreneurs, with a focus on women, minorities, and veterans, to address systemic inequities in access to capital.

Why it matters

Small businesses are the backbone of local economies, but many struggle to secure the funding needed to grow. The Búsqueda program aims to level the playing field by directing critical resources to entrepreneurs who have historically faced barriers to traditional financing. By empowering these businesses, the program hopes to drive economic development and job creation in Detroit's diverse communities.

The details

The Búsqueda program is a collaborative effort between local government, nonprofit organizations, and private sector partners. Each selected small business receives a $50,000 grant, as well as mentorship, training, and access to professional services to help them scale their operations. The program particularly focuses on supporting businesses in industries like technology, manufacturing, and professional services.

  • The Búsqueda program launched in January 2026.
  • The first round of $50,000 grants was awarded in March 2026.

The players

Búsqueda

A Detroit-based initiative providing $50,000 grants and support services to help small businesses in the region expand and create new jobs.

Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC)

A nonprofit organization that partners with the city of Detroit to drive economic development and support local businesses.

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What they’re saying

“Búsqueda is a game-changer for small businesses in Detroit. This program is giving entrepreneurs the capital and resources they need to take their companies to the next level.”

— Jamal Williams, Owner, Motor City Metalworks

“Access to capital is one of the biggest barriers facing minority-owned businesses. Búsqueda is helping to address that disparity and create more opportunities for diverse entrepreneurs to succeed.”

— Tamika Jackson, Executive Director, Detroit Minority Business Development Agency

What’s next

The Búsqueda program plans to award additional $50,000 grants to small businesses in the Detroit area on a quarterly basis throughout 2026.

The takeaway

The Búsqueda program is a promising initiative that is providing critical financial and operational support to help small businesses in Detroit grow and thrive. By targeting underserved entrepreneurs, the program is working to address systemic inequities and drive inclusive economic development in the region.