Authors: Laura Sigmon

Summary

The BuyFlint Initiative aims to strengthen Flint's local economy by connecting small businesses and microenterprises with procurement opportunities from larger corporations and public institutions. This initiative focuses on identifying and supporting local businesses through capacity-building programs, resource alignment, and a new BuyFlint directory. The project targets underserved populations and businesses, particularly those in Opportunity Zones, to foster economic resilience and local supply chain development. ​ 

The initiative includes mapping and categorizing businesses, offering workshops and mentorship for procurement readiness, creating an interactive business directory, and engaging corporations to source goods locally. It aims to increase local procurement by 12% within the first year and improve the readiness of at least 50 businesses to meet procurement demands. The results will be shared through reports, presentations, and digital platforms, with the goal of creating a replicable model for strengthening local economies in similar distressed communities. 

Author Information

Laura Sigmon is a seasoned entrepreneur and business strategist with over two decades of experience in operational excellence, honed during her tenure with UPS, FedEx, and USF Holland. Renowned for her expertise in profit maximization, labor relations, and regulatory compliance, Laura possesses a unique ability to anticipate and capitalize on market trends, enabling her to deliver exceptional results.

In 2008, Laura founded Best Practices Consulting Services, LLC (BPCS), a capacity-building firm dedicated to supporting economic development agencies, microlenders, and small business support organizations. Through BPCS, she has coached, trained, and facilitated the launch of over 1,500 small businesses across 11 Michigan counties, including Metro Detroit, Flint, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Pontiac, and Western Wayne County. The firm operates staffed locations in the Downtown Development Authorities of Romulus and Flint, Michigan, providing strategic planning, business development, marketing, process modeling, and government contracting services.

Laura’s thought leadership extends beyond consulting. Since 2013, she has co-hosted the Detroit-based live radio broadcast “Courageous Hour,” and since 2012, she has contributed the “Small Business Practices” column for Detroit Smart Pages. Additionally, she served as an adjunct professor at Mott Community College in Flint, Michigan, from 2006 to 2018.

A lifelong advocate for entrepreneurial growth, Laura holds an MBA in Business Administration and a bachelor’s degree in Management and Organizational Development. Her dedication to empowering small businesses and fostering economic development continues to leave a lasting impact throughout Michigan.