Oakland Thrive CEO outlines plan to sustain and scale county small‑business support

Camille, introduced as CEO of Oakland Thrive, told the Economic Development & Infrastructure Committee that she is six weeks into the role and that Oakland Thrive is operating as a stand‑alone nonprofit that serves small businesses countywide.

“Oakland Thrive is a national model for inclusive economic development,” Camille said, adding that the organization seeks national visibility and plans to continue a partnership with Oakland County. She told commissioners the remaining contractual funds were switched from ARPA to the county’s general fund to extend the Business Forward program and buy time while staff learns the true operating costs so the program can be sustained.

Commissioners asked about reporting cadence, board composition and whether Oakland Thrive would remain connected to Oakland County if it increasingly pursues external funding. Camille said the intent is to maintain a county partnership while broadening funding sources and expanding the board beyond the seven inaugural members (Laura and Sean Carlson were named as board members present). She invited commissioners to share resources for national exposure and confirmed staff will continue to provide updates to county leadership.

The committee welcomed Camille’s introduction and asked staff to clarify whether regular reporting (monthly or quarterly) would continue; staff and commissioners agreed to remain in close contact so the county can refer businesses to Oakland Thrive and advocate for the program where appropriate.

Ending: Commissioners welcomed the organization and asked staff to coordinate an appropriate reporting cadence so county partners can remain informed of Oakland Thrive activity.