Michigan Women Forward expands access to small business loans in Flint – WSMH

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by Mid-Michigan NOW
FLINT, Mich.— A partnership with 100K Ideas and another Michigan organization is bringing economic opportunities to Flint for women.
The Ruth Mott Foundation is investing $500,000 and a supporting grant of $450,000 to Michigan Women Forward (MWF).
This investment establishes MWF’s on-the-ground presence in Flint, working in close partnership with Flint-based 100K Ideas. A full-time lending officer works directly in Flint and is based at 100K Ideas’ downtown office.
“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 $450,000 grant over three years will help establish the local office, while the other investment will enable MWF to offer small loans of approximately $2,500–$50,000 to entrepreneurs, focusing on those who are excluded from traditional banking due to low credit scores, lack of collateral, or insufficient business history.
“The small business funding landscape is changing, making it more important than ever to expand options for small businesses and entrepreneurs in Flint,” 100K Ideas Executive Director Brandee Cooke-Brown said. “MWF’s approach is a great fit for Flint. We are excited to partner with them as they launch Flint-focused programming that combines education with investment—a critical step in helping businesses secure their first loan.”
As part of the Flint launch, entrepreneurs are invited to two events to celebrate the partnership.
100K Ideas’ Business Basics Cohort is a pilot program that is designed to help businesses build a strong foundation and prepare them for future capital. More than ensuring businesses have the documentation to secure capital, this program works alongside business owners to ensure they fully understand their operations and finances. The program begins on June 3 and meets bi-weekly through August 12th.
The Capital Readiness Lab is a multi-week program that helps entrepreneurs strengthen their financials, refine their business strategy, and prepare for capital. That meeting series starts on August 26th and runs until September 30th.
2026 Sinclair, Inc.

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