1. What is Clutch Consulting and what inspired you to start your own business?
2. What are some of the services and support Clutch provides for businesses and entrepreneurs? 
3. You’re not new to working in this space. You’re the co-founder of the Michigan Black Business Alliance and during the NFL Draft, you helped minority businesses secure $12 million in contracts. How do you hope to replicate this success across Michigan?
4. How does Clutch Consulting differentiate itself from other strategic consulting firms in Michigan?
5. Where can people learn more about your work and get involved?
   
   

Former Michigan Black Business Alliance Co-Founder Exits to Launch Strategic Consulting Firm

Kai Bowman builds on success leveraging $12 million in contracts during the NFL Draft to help businesses think bigger and bolder

Detroit, MI — A new consulting firm, Clutch Consulting, has launched with the goal of
empowering entrepreneurs who have achieved early success to scale their businesses while simultaneously fostering inclusive economic development and forging critical partnerships between corporations, government entities and diverse communities across Michigan.

Spearheaded by Kai Bowman, Clutch Consulting builds on Bowman’s proven track record of driving impactful outcomes for minority businesses, as seen during his work on the 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit.

“Kai was an invaluable strategic partner in Detroit for the planning and execution of the 2024 NFL Draft,” said Nicki Ewell, Senior Director of Events for the NFL. “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.”

The NFL Draft showcased the transformative power of intentionally prioritizing minority-owned businesses. Bowman led and executed efforts through the Michigan Black Business Alliance that paved the way for the NFL to spend $12 million on local minority businesses, with Black-owned companies securing 34 contracts, nearly 40% of all local contracts awarded.

Additional contracts went to other minority businesses for services such as transportation, photography, arts, and laundry, creating over 500 jobs for Detroiters.
“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.”

With Clutch Consulting, Bowman aims to replicate and scale this success statewide. The firm provides tailored guidance in strategic planning, new business development, operations, human capital, marketing, financial modeling, technology enhancements, real estate development and community engagement.

“The launch of Clutch Consulting represents the direction of growth we’re seeing in Detroit and the evolving needs of our business ecosystem,” said Claude Molinari, President and CEO of Visit Detroit. “Having worked closely with Kai during the NFL Draft preparations, I’ve witnessed his ability to create intentional partnerships and drive meaningful impact. 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. 

“Kai Bowman’s visionary leadership has been a cornerstone of Michigan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem,” Charity Dean, President and CEO of the Michigan Black Business Alliance.

“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. 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.”

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.”

“Detroit’s small business ecosystem is full of talent and ambition, but 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,” said Hamissi Mamba, Founder of Baobab Fare. “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.”

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.

“Kaiwan Bowman is an outstanding leader and partner,” said Arthur Jemison, former Group Executive for the City of Detroit. “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.”

For more information about Clutch Consulting and its services, visit weareclutchconsulting.com. 

About Clutch Consulting
Clutch Consulting provides strategic consulting services that drive scalable growth for
entrepreneurs who have demonstrated early success by providing guidance, access to
resources, and impactful connections to expand their reach and influence. We simultaneously bridge the gap between established entities and diverse audiences, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships.