Detroit Celebrates Entrepreneurship at Corktown NFL Draft Block Party

Corktown is buzzing this week with the Corktown Small Business Block Party. Dozens of local Detroit businesses have come together to showcase their products and celebrate the city’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. The event, a partnership between Chase Bank, All Things Marketplace, and the Detroit Hispanic Development Corporation, runs from April 25 to 27. Visitors can explore various goods, from clothing and candles to peanut brittle and barbecue sauce. Located outside the Chase Community Center (1620 Michigan Avenue), the block party offers more than just shopping; it’s a testament to Detroit’s creativity and enduring spirit. Local Businesses Share Their Stories One such entrepreneur is Doreen Gardner, owner of Papa’s Brittle, which she started in 2021. Doreen sees her business as more than just a livelihood; it’s a way to honor her family legacy. She fondly remembers her parents’ tradition of making peanut brittle for the holidays and continues it with Papa’s Brittle. Doreen is grateful for Chase’s support, which allows her to share her family’s tradition with others. Larry Crockett, owner of Lorraine’s Premium BBQ, is another entrepreneur making a splash at the event. He offers four flavors of gluten-free, non-GMO barbecue sauce. Larry sees events like the block party as...