Detroit’s next generation of entrepreneurs took the stage on May 13 as students from Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD) presented their business concepts during a special capstone event, which was hosted by Dennis Archer Jr., CEO of Ignition Media, at Central Kitchen + Bar in Detroit.
The event marked the culmination of a semester-long entrepreneurship course taught by Archer, a successful entrepreneur himself, in which students developed business plans inspired by their passions, experiences and perspectives.
“What we built here goes far beyond a business plan,” explained Archer. “These students walked in with ambition and walked out with a roadmap.” More importantly, they walked out knowing how to think. They learned to take feedback, adapt their ideas, and defend their vision in front of people who have actually been in the arena. That combination of practical skill and real-world exposure is exactly what turns aspiration into action. I couldn’t be more proud of what they accomplished.”
During the showcase, students presented their business plans to a panel of professionals representing banking, media, real estate and other industries. These business leaders provided feedback on key areas essential to launching and growing a small business, including access to capital, financial planning, management, marketing, technology and long-term sustainability.
Joining the group of professional advisors was Chris Jackson, vice president, regional banking relationship manager, at Huntington Bank.
“I was impressed by the students’ creativity and the level of detail they brought to their business plans,” said Jackson. “Their enthusiasm and willingness to learn stood out, and it was inspiring to see how they challenged themselves to think critically about building a business.”
Jackson (left) and industry panelists connected with students following the presentations for continued conversation and feedback
“There is something that happens when a student stands in front of someone who has actually built a business, absorbed a loss, and figured out what works,” shared Archer. “The stakes become real in the best possible way. The professionals who joined us weren’t there to evaluate a grade; they were there to engage honestly, to offer the kind of perspective no textbook can replicate. That experience changes how students see their own ideas, and that shift in thinking is something they will carry with them long after the semester ends.”
“From a banking perspective, I was sure to highlight the significance of understanding cash flow, building strong relationships with financial partners and staying open to feedback,” explained Jackson. “These factors can make the difference between a good idea and a sustainable business.”
For the budding entrepreneurs, the experience offered a valuable chance to network, explore mentorship opportunities and hear more about what it takes to turn an idea into a business.
“When talking with the students, I emphasized the importance of resilience and adaptability as they develop their ideas; being able to pivot and adjust a plan is crucial for any entrepreneur, especially in today’s ever-evolving market,” Jackson shared. “I also encouraged them to surround themselves with mentors and advisors who can offer guidance, which I believe is one of the best investments they can make in their entrepreneurial journey.”
WCCCD students prepared displays and presentations for the showcase
Huntington Bank’s involvement reflects its ongoing commitment to developing small businesses and strengthening the local community by investing in people and ideas.
“Experiences like this create a ripple effect. Empowering students today leads to stronger small business communities tomorrow,” said Jackson. “It’s essential that we share knowledge and help foster the entrepreneurial spirit that drives growth and innovation.”
By equipping students with the confidence and connections needed to advance their business ideas, the capstone event highlighted what can be accomplished when educators, mentors and business leaders invest in and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs in Detroit and beyond.
