At the Gilbert Family Foundation, we believe every Detroiter should have the opportunity to build wealth and achieve economic mobility. That’s why we invest in programs and partnerships that help expand access to opportunity for residents and small business owners.

One example is The Hustle, an initiative created by the Detroit Historical Society that celebrates and elevates Detroit’s BIPOC entrepreneurs, helping them grow their businesses and strengthen the city’s economy. Gilbert Family Foundation’s investment supports the Detroit Historical Society by developing exhibits, workshops and events that support The Hustle. The investment brings recognition to the artisans, musicians, chefs, mechanics, and shopkeepers who embody entrepreneurship, creativity and community.

Honorees were selected at the June 18, 2026, Hustle Announcement Party. These honorees represent Detroit’s neighborhoods, driving innovation and connection across the city.

Honorees:

Alandra Chuney: The Sister’s Couch

Asia Denson: Denson Construction Services

Chelcea Stowers: Lesbian Social Detroit

Constance Bowen: Keeping it Clean by Connie B

Cornelius Harris: Submerge

Cortney Hamilton: For the Love of Cheesecake

Courtnery Smith: Detroit Phoenix Center

Curtis Blackwell: Sound Mind Sound Body

Darren Riley: JustAir – air quality

David Woods: SBOY LLC & Enjoy Detroit

Diana Gomez: Tacos Hernandez

Ederique Goudia: In the Business of Food Detroit

Elizabeth Mays: Mays Multimedia

Eric Hood Sr. Hood’s Tires

Genevieve Vang: Bangkok 96 Street Food

Janet Webster JOnes: Source Booksellers

Jessica Care Moore: More Black Press

Jevona Fudge: Detroit Sip

Jonathan Peregrino: JP Makes and Bakes

Jordan (JoJo) Huerta: Not Ur Amigo – street fashion

Josemine Evans: Indigo Culinary Club

Khadija Hicks: Association for the Advancement of Deaf and Head of Hearing

LaTerry YaSeen: Sew Modest Studio

Mario Kelly: Believe 313 Staffing

Max Chapman: Chapman’s Jewelry

Michael Williams: Sonny’s Hamburgers

Michelle Smart: Bags to Butterflies

Micia Eddins: J.O.B. Lactation Foundation – Doula

Patreze Brinkley: Detroit Stylin’ Skate Club

Ping Ho: The Royce, Mink, Marrow

Quiana Rice: The Kitchen by Cooking with Que

Sydney Noble: The Noble Brand

Teresa Alvarez: TJ Alvarez Media – photography

Thomas Fentress: Dexter Barber Shop

Tiera Moultrie: Autism in the D

 

Honorable Mentions:

Ebony Cochran: Detroit Wealth Club

Sandrea Epps: Sandy’s Land LLC

Lashay Heard: Paint’d Party Services – paint bus

jøn kent: Sanctuary Farms and Sacred Spaces

Leona Milton: What’s the Dill

Larry D. Swygert: L. Swygert Hair Studio and L. Swygert Plaza

Recognition is just the beginning. Selected honorees will share their stories through dedicated oral history interviews, creating a permanent record for the Detroit Historical Society’s collection. Each honoree will also be featured in a professional portrait displayed in the museum, ensuring their contributions to Detroit’s vibrant community are highlighted and celebrated. Visit the Detroit Historical Society to experience their stories and celebrate Detroit’s entrepreneurial spirit.