Michigan Women Forward expands access to loans in Flint with investment from Ruth Mott Foundation

FLINT, Michigan — Michigan Women Forward is expanding access to small business loans and support services in Flint through a new investment from the Ruth Mott Foundation.

The foundation announced a $500,000 program-related investment and a $450,000 supporting grant to Michigan Women Forward, a Community Development Financial Institution focused on expanding economic opportunities for women and entrepreneurs of color.

The investment establishes Michigan Women Forward’s on-the-ground presence in Flint in partnership with 100K Ideas, where a full-time lending officer will be based at the organization’s downtown office. The role is designed to connect local entrepreneurs with financing, one-on-one guidance, business education, and technical assistance.

“Entrepreneurs in Flint have the vision and drive to build thriving businesses, but can face barriers to accessing capital,” Ruth Mott Foundation President Sue Peters said. “The MWF model builds on existing efforts by adding a layer of financing and hands-on support—working alongside the community and local partners to ensure more businesses can start, grow, and succeed right here in Flint.”

The $500,000 loan investment will enable Michigan Women Forward to offer small loans of approximately $2,500 to $50,000 to entrepreneurs, with a focus on those who may be excluded from traditional banking due to low credit scores, lack of collateral, or limited business history.

“Too many entrepreneurs are told they’re not ready for funding when what they really need is a partner to help them get there,” said Carolyn Cassin, president and CEO of Michigan Women Forward. “This investment allows us to be present in Flint, build relationships locally, and provide the kind of coaching and access to capital that can help businesses grow and create long-term economic opportunity.”

Through the partnership with 100K Ideas, Michigan Women Forward will work alongside an organization already connected to Flint’s entrepreneurial community.

“The small business funding landscape is changing, making it more important than ever to expand options for small businesses and entrepreneurs in Flint,” said Brandee Cooke-Brown, executive director of 100K Ideas. “MWF’s approach is a great fit for Flint.”

Two upcoming opportunities are available for entrepreneurs: 100K Ideas’ Business Basics Cohort, running June 3 through Aug. 12, and the Capital Readiness Lab, running Aug. 26 through Sept. 30. Both programs are designed to help business owners strengthen their operations, finances, and readiness for future funding.

Local entrepreneurs can learn more at miwf.org/flint.