March 2025 Donor Report

March 2025 Impact Report: Leveraging Data and Building Stronger Pathways for African Communities

The GABA Foundation’s work in March 2025 has been defined by measurable progress, impactful partnerships, and a deepening commitment to data-driven storytelling that centers the experiences of African and Caribbean communities. As we expand our initiatives, we are sharpening our focus on capturing, analyzing, and amplifying data that reflects the realities, challenges, and opportunities faced by African entrepreneurs and communities across Michigan and beyond.

GABAWorks: Driving Impact Through Workforce and Business Development

In just two months since its launch, GABAWorks USA has already demonstrated its potential to transform the business landscape for African and Caribbean entrepreneurs. Our first cohort of participants has completed 421 cumulative hours of work, reflecting their dedication to advancing their businesses and securing sustainable growth. These hours include:

• Business Model Refinement – Participants have refined their business models, ensuring alignment with current market trends and consumer demands.

• Supply Chain Optimization and Procurement Strategy Development – Entrepreneurs are actively identifying gaps in their supply chains and improving procurement processes to increase efficiency and reduce costs.

• Market Expansion and Capital Readiness – Participants have engaged in detailed assessments of their market positioning and developed customized strategies to secure growth capital and expand into new markets.

These hours of hands-on work represent direct investments of time, talent, and expertise that are positioning African and Caribbean entrepreneurs to scale operations, access capital, and drive community impact.

Strengthening Global Connections: Partnering with the Consul General of Nigeria in New York

In March, we deepened our commitment to global engagement and diplomatic collaboration by establishing a strategic partnership with the Consul General of Nigeria in New York. This partnership is a critical step in strengthening ties between African communities in the United States and their home countries while increasing opportunities for economic collaboration and cultural exchange.

As part of this collaboration, we are hosting a series of high-impact events and forums aimed at fostering dialogue, facilitating connections, and promoting opportunities for Nigerian entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders in Michigan. We currently have over 250 Nigerians registered to attend these important events, reflecting a strong interest in leveraging these platforms to build business partnerships, promote cultural heritage, and enhance economic participation.

The Power of Storytelling: Centering African Voices in Policy and Practice

Data alone cannot drive change—stories bring data to life. The GABA Foundation is committed to amplifying the voices of African and Caribbean communities by translating data into powerful narratives that illustrate the lived experiences of those we serve. By centering these voices, we aim to challenge existing narratives, inform inclusive policy frameworks, and build a future where African and Caribbean entrepreneurs can thrive.

What’s Next: Sustaining Momentum Through Data and Partnerships

Looking ahead, we are:

• Expanding the reach of GABAWorks to include additional cohorts and provide more African and Caribbean entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed.

• Finalizing and analyzing findings from The GABA Index Survey to inform policy recommendations and philanthropic investments that address systemic barriers to economic mobility.

• Deepening our partnerships with diplomatic and economic stakeholders to create more opportunities for African entrepreneurs to participate in global trade and business development.

Join Us in Building a Future Rooted in Equity and Opportunity

The GABA Foundation is proud to lead this work, but we recognize that sustained impact requires collective action. We invite philanthropic partners, corporate stakeholders, and community leaders to join us in advancing economic mobility, expanding market access, and driving sustainable change for African and Caribbean communities.

Together, we are building stronger pathways to prosperity, ensuring that African and Caribbean voices are heard, and creating opportunities that last for generations.