Detroit, Michigan - 07/03/2023
Building a More Inclusive Economy: Jose L. Flores Joins New Economy Initiative Advisory Board
In a decisive move toward fostering a more resilient and inclusive economy in Southeast Michigan, the New Economy Initiative (NEI) unveiled its pioneering advisory board. Comprising five distinguished professionals, this board aspires to fortify NEI's strategy and programming, offering expertise to support small businesses within underserved populations and communities across the region.
One notable addition to the NEI Advisory Board is Jose L. Flores, the esteemed Chief Executive Officer of Ancor Automotive. Recognized for his visionary leadership in the automotive industry, Flores brings a wealth of expertise to NEI. His journey includes spearheading the Ancor Automotive Software Innovation Hub, a transformative initiative aimed at modernizing tracking and mobility capabilities for automotive companies across North America. His strategic insights, honed through executive roles at the London Consulting Group across diverse industries and active participation in shaping automotive policy issues specific to Michigan, underscore his commitment to innovation and community engagement.
“Being part of the New Economy Initiative Advisory Board is a tremendous honor for me. It’s an opportunity to contribute towards building a more inclusive economy in Southeast Michigan. I believe in the power of collaboration and innovation to uplift underserved communities and drive economic growth. Together, we aim to create an entrepreneurial ecosystem that fosters opportunities for all and strengthens our regional economy.”
- Jose L. Flores
Joining Flores on the advisory board are Paul Brown, Managing Director of eLab Ventures; Khalil Rahal, Director of Economic Development at DTE Energy; Maria Thompson, Venture Partner at Arsenal Growth; and Nathaniel Wallace, Head of Civic Partnerships at Michigan Central. Each member brings unique perspectives and experiences vital to NEI's mission of fortifying Southeast Michigan's small business ecosystem.
Led by Wafa Dinaro, NEI's Executive Director, this dynamic advisory board will convene quarterly to offer strategic recommendations, thereby steering NEI toward realizing its mission of creating a more resilient and inclusive regional economy.
NEI, a philanthropic collaboration led by the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, strives to foster an entrepreneurial culture that benefits all residents and bolsters the regional economy. As Jose L. Flores and other industry leaders join forces, NEI's efforts promise to cultivate an ecosystem that empowers entrepreneurs and propels small businesses forward in Southeast Michigan.
For more information on the New Economy Initiative, visit neweconomyinitiative.org.
About the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan:
The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan is a catalyst for positive change in the region, supporting various activities across sectors like education, arts and culture, health, human services, community development, and civic affairs.
For further details, visit www.cfsem.org.