“There are countless benefits for a region when entrepreneurs of color, immigrants and women are able to access capital and support. By providing a diverse mix of training and funding opportunities, we can help entrepreneurs launch and grow businesses that build wealth and ownership and will leave a legacy for their families.”
April Jones-Boyle is an entrepreneur, mentor and champion of Detroit talent. As founder and executive director of the BUILD Institute, she helps incubate small businesses—especially women- and minority-owned businesses—in sectors ranging from clothing and cosmetics to construction, music and vehicle repairs. She developed the concept for BUILD Institute, a major KIVA partner in Detroit, while director of small business development at D-hive Detroit, a three-year initiative to connect residents to businesses and cultural opportunities across the Motor City.
Jones-Boyle is also the co-creator of a number of her own small-scale ventures, including the award-winning family Hootenanny kids concert series and CD, the critically acclaimed Indonesian pop-up restaurant Komodo Kitchen, and the all-mom rock band The Mydols, featured on the cable television series Gene Simmons Family Jewels. She sits on the board of Kiva Detroit and the advisory board for Ponyride. She is also co-owner and investor in Gold Cash Gold building and restaurant, in Corktown.
Organization:
BUILD Institute, Detroit
Area of Focus:
Small business development
Fellowship Project:
Support entrepreneurs with a new approach to microlending.