Kevin Smith, MBA

Kevin Bam Smith entered entrepreneurship through an unconventional path—poetry. For six years, he traveled nationally, performing and leading workshops, an experience that sharpened his communication skills and creative thinking. Those formative years laid the foundation for his transition into the business world.

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As Kevin became exposed to entrepreneurship and corporate environments, he often found himself in rooms where the language of business felt unfamiliar. Rather than remain on the margins, he chose to deepen his knowledge by earning an MBA with an emphasis in Entrepreneurship. Shortly after graduating, Kevin acquired a corporate cleaning franchise, where he began applying his education in real time.

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Through innovation and strategic insight, Kevin developed a relief service business model that supported other franchise owners, driving an 800% increase in company revenue within six months. Following the successful sale of his business, he launched a consulting firm, where he further refined his expertise and helped clients achieve an average of 40% revenue growth.

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Kevin has also contributed his financial leadership to nonprofit organizations, serving as Treasurer for the National Black MBA Association and helping guide the organization to long-term financial health. He later partnered with Founders First Capital Partners as a Business Coach and Workshop Practitioner, coaching and educating more than 150 business owners over five years.

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His impact in the entrepreneurial ecosystem has earned him numerous honors, including Diversity MBA’s Top 100 Under 50 Award, the National Black MBA Association’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and the Business Elite 40 Under 40 Award.

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Today, Kevin leverages his experience, strategic insight, and personal brand to support founders in the startup and scalable growth stages.