February 2025 Donor Report

Advancing Economic Mobility and Expanding Data-Driven Solutions

The GABA Foundation continued to build momentum in February 2025 by advancing sector-specific initiatives, launching data-driven assessments, and expanding technical assistance for African and Caribbean businesses. Our work this month reflects a deep commitment to empowering entrepreneurs, strengthening community resilience, and driving sustainable economic impact for African and Caribbean communities across the United States.

GABAWorks Launch: Empowering Entrepreneurs and Building Capacity

February marked the official launch of GABAWorks USA, our flagship workforce and business development initiative designed to equip African and Caribbean entrepreneurs with the tools needed to scale operations, access capital, and penetrate new markets. The program is structured to provide technical assistance, mentorship, and industry-specific training to a diverse cohort of entrepreneurs and small business owners who represent high-impact industries, including retail, food services, supply chain, and logistics. This ensures that participants receive tailored guidance that reflects the nuances of their respective sectors while building the knowledge and confidence required to succeed in a competitive marketplace.

The first cohort of GABAWorks USA members embodies the entrepreneurial spirit that drives economic growth in African and Caribbean communities. These entrepreneurs are ready to leverage their expertise and insights, but they often encounter systemic barriers that limit their growth potential. Through GABAWorks USA, they now have access to a structured pathway that integrates supply chain optimization, procurement strategies, and market expansion planning. This approach positions African and Caribbean businesses to scale operations, secure growth capital, and establish a foothold in larger markets. As these businesses grow, they not only create jobs and economic stability but also strengthen local economies and expand access to culturally relevant products and services.

The GABA Index Survey: Groundbreaking Data Collection to Inform Policy and Practice

Recognizing that sustainable impact requires data-informed decision-making, The GABA Foundation launched The GABA Index: A Community Needs Assessment in February. This groundbreaking survey is the first of its kind, designed to capture quantitative and qualitative data that highlights the challenges and opportunities facing African and Caribbean communities. The GABA Index examines critical dimensions of economic mobility, workforce participation, and market access that are often overlooked in traditional economic analyses.

The survey focuses on three key areas. First, it explores Economic Participation and Workforce Dynamics, analyzing labor market trends, employment gaps, and barriers to workforce advancement that affect African and Caribbean communities. Second, it delves into Consumer Behavior and Market Access, identifying purchasing power, spending patterns, and preferences that shape market demand. Finally, it examines Business Growth and Capital Constraints, providing insights into the challenges African and Caribbean businesses face in accessing capital, participating in trade, and developing financial literacy.

The GABA Index is more than a survey. It is a critical tool for generating actionable insights that will shape policy recommendations and drive philanthropic investments toward addressing gaps in economic mobility, market inclusion, and workforce equity. By using data-driven storytelling and impact measurement, we are ensuring that African and Caribbean communities remain visible, valued, and prioritized in policy conversations and economic development strategies.

Addressing Food Security and Strengthening Market Access Through Sector-Specific Initiatives

The GABA Foundation’s work extends beyond technical assistance and research. We are actively addressing food security and strengthening market access through sector-specific initiatives like the GABA Healthy Markets Initiative (GHMI) and the GABA Culinary Growth Initiative (GCGI). GHMI focuses on increasing supply chain efficiency and expanding retail market access for African and Caribbean businesses engaged in food, health, and consumer goods. This initiative also works to eliminate food apartheid by ensuring that culturally relevant, fresh, and affordable food options reach underserved communities, particularly in ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) communities throughout Michigan.

GCGI complements this work by empowering food entrepreneurs, chefs, and hospitality businesses to scale their operations. By providing access to commercial kitchen spaces, distribution networks, and industry-specific training, GCGI supports small food businesses in growing their market presence while addressing community food insecurity. When food entrepreneurs succeed, they not only strengthen local food systems but also create sustainable pathways for increasing access to affordable, nutritious food in communities where it is needed most.

Expanding Market Entry and Global Trade Participation Through GABAWorks International

Recognizing the untapped potential of African and Caribbean businesses in the global economy, GABAWorks International provides critical guidance and support for entrepreneurs seeking to establish operations in the United States. The program offers market entry assistance, connects businesses with distribution channels, and ensures compliance with U.S. import/export regulations. By addressing these logistical and regulatory challenges, GABAWorks International empowers African and Caribbean businesses to enter new markets, increase trade participation, and strengthen global supply chains.

How You Can Support This Work

The GABA Foundation is uniquely positioned to be a catalyst for economic advancement, but sustainable impact requires the collective effort of philanthropic investors, corporate partners, and individual donors who are committed to supporting African and Caribbean communities. We invite you to join us in this work by contributing in the following ways:

Fund a Program – Invest in business growth, workforce development, or scholarship support that creates long-term impact.

Sponsor Research – Help us expand data collection and analysis through initiatives like The GABA Index, ensuring that our work remains rooted in evidence and aligned with community needs.

Support Trade and Business Development – Provide direct funding or technical assistance to help entrepreneurs access capital, markets, and logistics solutions that facilitate sustainable growth.

Engage with Policy Efforts – Advocate for inclusive trade and economic development strategies that prioritize the voices and interests of African and Caribbean businesses.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining Impact Through Data and Innovation

As we look ahead, we remain focused on scaling GABAWorks USA and GABAWorks International to serve more entrepreneurs, analyzing and publishing findings from The GABA Index to drive data-informed policy changes, and deepening our technical assistance offerings to ensure businesses have the resources they need to thrive. Our work is rooted in evidence, guided by data, and driven by a relentless commitment to equity and opportunity for African and Caribbean communities.

Together, we are building sustainable market ecosystems, strengthening economic pathways, and driving generational impact. Through continued collaboration, we can create a future where businesses thrive, capital flows equitably, and opportunities are limitless for African and Caribbean communities.