Michigan Black Business Alliance Co-Founder Departs to Launch Game-Changing Strategic Consulting Firm
Kai Bowman, a leading supporter of minority-owned businesses, is stepping up his game by starting Clutch Consulting. This new firm aims to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses while promoting economic opportunities for everyone. Bowman recently played a key role in helping secure $12 million in contracts for minority-owned businesses during the 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit, including his pop-up food hall concept with Recess, the only Black-owned business in the Draft footprint. In this new venture, he uses his experience to connect companies, government organizations, and diverse communities throughout Michigan.
Nicki Ewell, Senior Director of Events for the NFL, highlighted Bowman was an invaluable strategic partner in Detroit for the planning and execution of the 2024 NFL Draft.
“His ability to navigate the city and local stakeholders was key to the success the NFL had with not only record-setting attendance but the level of community engagement, including local business owners throughout metro Detroit and Wayne County,” Ewell said.
The NFL Draft highlighted the positive impact of supporting businesses owned by minorities. Through the efforts of Bowman and the Michigan Black Business Alliance, the NFL committed $12 million to local minority-owned companies. As a result, 34 contracts were awarded to Black-owned businesses, making up almost 40% of all contracts given out in the area. Other minority-owned businesses also received contracts for services like transportation, photography, arts, and laundry. This initiative helped create over 500 jobs for people in Detroit.
“We recognize that small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and their success creates a ripple effect that impacts everyone,” Bowman said.
“The NFL Draft was a perfect example of what’s possible when small businesses are given the opportunity to partner with larger corporations to execute major projects. Through Clutch Consulting, I’m committed to helping entrepreneurs, as well as corporations across Michigan, achieve their full potential—because when they succeed, we all succeed.”
Bowman founded Clutch Consulting to expand their successful approach to helping businesses throughout the state. The firm offers personalized support in various areas, including planning for the future, developing new business opportunities, improving operations, managing staff, marketing products or services, creating financial plans, enhancing technology, developing real estate projects, and getting involved with the community.
Claude Molinari, President and CEO of Visit Detroit, emphasized that the launch of Clutch Consulting represents the direction of growth in Detroit and the evolving needs of our business ecosystem.
“Having worked closely with Kai during the NFL Draft preparations, I’ve witnessed his ability to create intentional partnerships and drive meaningful impact,” Molinari said.
“His leadership in creating opportunities for local businesses during one of Detroit’s most significant events demonstrated the kind of strategic thinking our city needs. Kai’s deep commitment to inclusive growth and our business community makes this new venture an exciting addition to Detroit. His vision for creating sustainable economic opportunities will continue to strengthen our city’s future for years to come.”
Clutch Consulting’s focus is to help already established businesses think bigger and bolder, positioning them to thrive in an increasingly competitive market while creating broader economic benefits. The firm will also work with corporate, real estate, and government clients to help them better communicate and partner with minority-led small businesses and diverse communities.
Charity Dean, President and CEO of the Michigan Black Business Alliance highlighted Bowman’s visionary leadership has been a cornerstone of Michigan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“From co-founding the Michigan Black Business Alliance to championing economic growth and development at the City of Detroit, his unwavering commitment to solving problems has left an indelible mark,” Dean said.
“I am excited for what’s to come and equally thrilled that we get to continue working with Kai in his new capacity. Today is a great day for the region and for our state.”
The Clutch Consulting team has more than 60 years of experience leading initiatives from Fortune 500 conglomerates to local small businesses in America and globally. Past experience includes the NFL Draft in Detroit, Michigan Black Business Alliance, Whirlpool Corp., General Mills, Procter and Gamble, African Business Fellowship, NASCAR, Denver Broncos and more.
Arthur Jemison, former Group Executive for the City of Detroit highlighted Bowman is an outstanding leader and partner.
“He’s got a great work ethic, he’s an amazing listener and synthesizer with the ability to build the consensus that moves business forward,” Jemision said.
Hamissi Mamba, Founder of Baobab Fare, emphasized that Detroit’s small business ecosystem is full of talent and ambition. However, for too long, the focus has been on starting up rather than scaling up. Clutch Consulting, under Kai’s leadership, is poised to change that.
“I’ve seen firsthand the strategic insight and dedication he brings to the table, and I have no doubt that Clutch Consulting will be instrumental in driving the next wave of business growth in Detroit,” Mamba said.
The Clutch Consulting team has more than 60 years of experience leading initiatives from Fortune 500 conglomerates to local small businesses in America and globally. Past experience includes the NFL Draft in Detroit, Michigan Black Business Alliance, Whirlpool Corp., General Mills, Procter and Gamble, African Business Fellowship, NASCAR, Denver Broncos and more.
Bowman’s new venture addresses the systemic barriers many minority entrepreneurs face when trying to scale their businesses.
“Every Fortune 500 company uses consultants, but none of the big four consulting firms are minority-led or owned,” Bowman said.
“If by chance minority-led small businesses do get access to consultants, those consultants typically lack the cultural competence to understand
their business, audience or growth potential. For minority businesses to be successful, they need access to stronger networks, procurement opportunities, working spaces and world-class universities. Clutch Consulting is designed to provide that access—all through a multicultural
lens.”
For more information about Clutch Consulting and its services, visit weareclutchconsulting.com.