June 8, 2023 (DETROIT) – The Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), the city of Detroit's premier economic catalyst, proudly announces Mikki Godfrey as the new director of its BuyDetroit initiative, dedicated to helping Detroit-based entrepreneurs scale their businesses. With an extensive background in supporting small businesses, Godfrey brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to propel BuyDetroit’s mission forward. Godfrey's return to the DEGC marks her second tenure with the organization. In her previous role as a district business liaison, she skillfully guided Detroit small business owners through challenges and facilitated connections with vital business support organizations within the city. As the new director, Godfrey will be pivotal in designing and implementing strategic initiatives to bolster the organization's procurement programs. Her leadership will be instrumental in forging strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, cultivating relationships with local and national companies and expanding access to procurement contracts for Detroit entrepreneurs. "I am thrilled to return to DEGC as BuyDetroit’s new program director and contribute to the transformational work being done here. Detroit has a wealth of entrepreneurial talent, and I am committed to expanding their access to procurement opportunities,” said Godfrey. “We will drive meaningful change in Detroit's business landscape by facilitating collaborations, fostering innovation and championing economic development." Godfrey adds that she’s “bilingual in speaking both English and business,” as a testament to her understanding of the entrepreneurial and economic landscapes. Prior to her new position, Godfrey served as manager of the Our Strong Start and One Stop Shop childcare programs, led by the State of Michigan. Here, she led a team focused on helping childcare entrepreneurs open and expand over 1,000 childcare businesses in the state. “With a strong commitment to economic empowerment and community development, Mikki is poised to drive positive change and unlock opportunities for Detroit entrepreneurs in the realm of procurement,” said Sean Gray, vice president of Small Business Services at the DEGC. “Her strategic vision and ability to mobilize resources will enable BuyDetroit to catalyze economic growth, job creation and prosperity in Detroit.” Godfrey holds a bachelor's degree from Eastern Michigan University and is pursuing her Master's of Business Administration and Human Resources from the University of Phoenix. Godfrey is a Detroit native and graduate of Cass Technical High School. ### Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC) Detroit Economic Growth Corporation is a non-profit organization that serves as Detroit’s lead implementing agency for business retention, attraction and economic development. DEGC is led by a board comprised of business, civic and community leaders. Its staff provides services for key public authorities that facilitate incentives and other forms of financing for projects that bring new jobs and investment to the City. DEGC also manages important initiatives to support small businesses and grow neighborhood commercial corridors. DEGC is dedicated to inclusive development and access to economic opportunity.
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