Oakland Thrive CEO outlines expansion plan, says organization will stay connected to county

Oakland Thrive’s new chief executive, Camille Walker Banks, told the Oakland County Economic Development & Infrastructure Committee on Thursday that the nonprofit is "in growth mode" and intends to maintain its partnership with the county as it transitions contract funding from federal ARPA money to the county general fund.

Walker Banks, who said she has been in the role six weeks, described Oakland Thrive as a standalone nonprofit that supports small businesses countywide. "We are a national model for inclusive economic development," she said, adding that the group plans to seek broader visibility for its work.

Why it matters: Oakland Thrive serves as a referral and resource partner for county business-development efforts and is being funded through a mix of sources as it scales. County officials said shifting remaining contract dollars from ARPA to the general fund will allow Oakland Thrive to continue the Business Forward program without an immediate termination of services.

County commissioners asked whether Oakland Thrive will remain a unit connected to Oakland County. Walker Banks and county staff responded that a formal connection will remain: remaining contract funds have been reallocated from ARPA to the general fund so the program can continue, and the county and Oakland Thrive expect ongoing reporting and partnership. Walker Banks said the nonprofit started with an inaugural seven-member board and expects to expand the board composition as the organization grows.

Commissioners pressed on partnership details and reporting. The chair said staff will follow up to determine whether monthly or quarterly reports will be appropriate. Walker Banks said national exposure and partnerships are priorities, and multiple commissioners praised the program's early results and role supporting entrepreneurs.

The committee welcomed the presentation and recommended that related communications be received and filed; no formal board policy or contract change was approved at the meeting.