Founded in 1971, James Group has been a leading provider of global supply chain management services specializing in innovative and end-to-end supply chain and logistics solutions including warehouse, transportation and other services. Headquartered in Detroit, the company has a history of philanthropy; giving back to the city and its residents by supporting families, disadvantaged children, minorities, women and veteran-owned businesses. The company is now taking its efforts to new heights while celebrating 50 years in service — the organization is launching a new initiative for Detroit entrepreneurs and students.
James Group recently announced the James Group Drive, or the JG Drive, a funding initiative to help both entrepreneurs and students grow in Detroit. The funding initiative will award $100,000 total with $50,000 geared towards education and the remainder going to entrepreneurs.
The company’s visionary founders, John A. James and Calvin Outlaw launched the company as a provider of freight transportation services. Fighting multiple legislative battles at the federal and state levels, James was able to obtain the company’s 48-state and international operating authority. Igniting the torch that will give others an opportunity to grow, the company is honoring its legacy and helping to propel the community.
“My father, James Group founder John A. James, believes that education and entrepreneurial spirit are what allowed James Group to last for 50 years,” says John E. James, president of James Group. “To celebrate the 50th anniversary of James Group, the JG Drive will honor his legacy by helping to accelerate growth and excellence in our community.”
For entrepreneurs looking to apply, the personal and business tie to Detroit is number one. Applicants must live or work in Detroit, first. Next, owners must have a business plan that will promote the applicant’s company’s long-term success and empower, inspire and include neighborhood Detroiters in that success. Students who are not a resident of Detroit are still welcome to apply. However, student applicants must have graduated from or will be graduating from a high school in Detroit.
“In the 50 years we’ve been in business, we’ve never let up, never given up and always put our community first,” said Lorron James, CEO of James Group. “The JG Drive is our way of helping other entrepreneurs, visionaries and hopeful scholars on their way to changing the world.”
Applicants will not have to wait long before finding out if they have been rewarded. The JG Drive will announce semi-finalists in September and finalists in October.
The James Group, is now headed by the founder’s sons, Lorron and John E. James, who helped move the company was able to expand further and build new companies in logistics, transportation, warehousing and technology. From humble beginnings with a single truck and annual sales of less than $50,000, the company saw substantial growth and in the mid-1990s, became the highest volume truckload carriers.
This is an Inaugural grant offered by JG Drive. Staying committed to the continued development of Detroit, JG Drive also sits on multiple boards across the city including the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, United away, Coleman A. Young Foundation, Museum of African American History and more.
Applications are due no later than August 30, 2021, via thejgdrive.com. Applicants must submit a video pitch explaining why they are a changemaker in the city of Detroit. The video must be shared via social media on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram. For more information, please visit the company’s website.
About Post Author
