Last week, I had the opportunity to attend a ribbon cutting for 100K Ideas. The local nonprofit recently moved into downtown Flint’s Dryden Building, where it’s launching its new Startup Hub and re-opening Shops on Saginaw, a consignment-style store where local entrepreneurs sell their goods.
Among the 16 businesses represented in Shops on Saginaw is 1:Eleven Leather Goods, which has an especially compelling story. Its owner, Miracle McGlown, first learned to sew more than a decade ago while he was incarcerated. A few years later, the Flint native was granted clemency from former President Barack Obama, returned home, and put his skills into use as the founder of a business specializing in bespoke handbags.
Part of what I love about McGlown’s business story is how he’s taken advantage of so many different entrepreneurial resources in this community. He is a 2023 grant…