Name: 

David Tarver

Title:

President

How long have you been in operation:

1.5 years

What inspired you to start your business?

I perceived a need, and an opportunity, for entrepreneurs to focus more of their energies and resources on solving problems faced by urban communities.

What are some struggles you faced when trying to achieve your goals?

Moving back to the Detroit area after many years in New Jersey, I had to get reacquainted with the area and the people, and to establish my credibility with a new set of players.

What is one of your most notable triumphs?

Earlier in my career, I started a technology company called Telecom Analysis Systems, Inc. I started the company in the basement of my home, and sold it 12 years later for $30 million.

What is one piece of advice you would give to those who want to be entrepreneurs?

Be prepared to work incredibly hard. Make sure you’re not doing it primarily for the money, because that will most likely not sustain your motivation.

Where do you envision your business and Detroit in 10 years?

I think we will have transformed the way the people think of urban-focused businesses, and that they will be viewed not as social programs, but as a way to both improve communities and to benefit financially.