The Southwest Detroit Business Association (SDBA) recently announced that the crowdfunding campaign for the La Joya Gardens Community Space and Café Clark has successfully reached its $45,000 goal, unlocking a matching grant through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) Public Spaces Community Places initiative.
The campaign received a significant boost in its final week, with approximately $30,000 raised thanks to the dedicated outreach efforts of the SDBA Board of Directors and the generosity of community supporters.
A total of $90,000 will ensure that a cooperative kitchen, café space, and community hub within the La Joya Gardens mixed-use development, will become a reality. The funding will support the buildout of this vital project that is designed to welcome and serve Southwest Detroit residents.
Construction of the café and community space is slated to begin this spring following the completion of architectural plans and securing city approvals. Work will then progress to plumbing and electrical upgrades, followed by the installation of sinks, cabinets, countertops, and equipment. The space is expected to open to the public by this fall.
Led by the SDBA in partnership with MEDC, the campaign was supported by the Michigan Municipal League and the Michigan-based crowdfunding platform Patronicity.
The success of the campaign was a true team effort, with both the SDBA board and staff playing pivotal roles. In the final stretch, the board rallied together to help secure the remaining funds needed to unlock the matching grant, conducting extensive outreach to constituents, funders and community partners. Their efforts not only brought the campaign across the finish line but also underscored the organization’s commitment to its mission for a healthy, vibrant community.
“The collaboration between our board and staff made all of the difference,” said Tonia Patino, SDBA Board Chair. “Everyone came together with purpose and energy to help us reach our goal. This project reflects the heart of Southwest Detroit, which is community-driven, deeply rooted, and forward-looking. We’re proud to be part of something that will connect our neighbors for years to come.”
Café Clark, owned by lifelong Southwest Detroit residents Melisa Hernandez and Eduardo Salas, will serve as a welcoming neighborhood café featuring coffee, breakfast and lunch options. The space will be designed to spark collaboration, support entrepreneurs, and reflect the culture and flavor of the neighborhood.
“We’re grateful for the support from the SDBA board and staff who helped drive this campaign forward,” said Hernandez. “Their commitment helped us take a huge step toward making our vision a reality. We’re excited to open our doors and welcome the community.”
La Joya Gardens, where Café Clark will be located, is part of a broader effort to develop mixed-use spaces that enhance community vibrancy. This project aligns MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places program, which has supported hundreds of similar initiatives across Michigan since its inception in 2014.
The success of this campaign highlights the power of collaboration between local organizations like SDBA, state programs like MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places initiative, and grassroots community support. To date, MEDC has provided more than $13.6 million in matching grants for 397 projects statewide.
“This campaign is a testament to what’s possible when the community comes together with a shared purpose,” said SDBA Vice President of Programs; Compliance Brandi Watts. “The SDBA has always championed projects that uplift and empower Southwest Detroit, and this is another example of our deep commitment to the people and places we serve.” About the Southwest Detroit Business Association.
The Southwest Detroit Business Association will move forward on a new community hub for connection, creativity and culture with $90,000 in combined support
