Lynn Lam
Pronouns: they/them
Research Mentor(s): Janae Wilson
Research Mentor School/College/Department: ProsperUs Detroit / NonUM
Program:
Authors: Lynn Lam, Janae Wilson, Dorimar Mercado
Session: Session 7: 4:40 pm – 5:30 pm
Poster: 82
Abstract
ProsperUs Detroit resources needed to be updated, in terms of programs and website links. Information needed to be gathered from program participants to get input on how business resources could be improved, what content is missing from programs, and whether demographics were being accurately represented. A survey was conducted over the course of several months, receiving 46 usable responses after being sent to over 200 participants. An audit of website resources was conducted to update online links, and new resources were aggregated to be added. A presentation was created summarizing results, highlighting current resource gaps, and proposing future actions to be shared with the entire staff. Future workshops for the staff to improve programming and discuss new resources were planned and executed. The survey data provided updated information about general participant opinions on ProsperUs as a whole and their programs, as well as updated information about participant businesses, including operational status, their industry, and their insurance status. Gaps in ProsperUs resources, including sufficient bookkeeping services and financial projection creations, were found and served as a basis for where more attention should be allocated in operations. Organization wide workshops, as well as department specific workshops, were created to build skills and knowledge in order to better understand and serve the Detroit small business owner community. Resources surrounding these knowledge areas were compiled, and ProsperUs staff was able to make more efficient programs based on them.
