Trusted Connectors
Room 35
Connecting Local Entrepreneurs to Big Opportunities
“Helping the community, helping entrepreneurs, helping the economy — it’s almost like
a dream happening in real time.”
- Joshua Gray, Room 35 Co-Founder
Room 35 has quickly become a catalyst for entrepreneurial growth in Southwest Michigan. Founded in 2021
by Joshua Gray and Donovan McVey, the Kalamazoo-based consulting firm helps BIPOC- and women-owned
construction businesses secure larger projects, access state funding and keep those dollars working in
the local economy.
Both founders know firsthand how fragile entrepreneurship can be. Gray remembers a small business in
his hometown that failed when he was 16.
“I tried to help save it,” he said. “People made fun of me for even trying, but
that’s when I realized how much local businesses matter. I don’t want that to happen to
anyone else.”
McVey, whose background is in finance, said, “I came from a blue-collar family. My dad works in
maintenance. My mom’s a social worker. I wanted to take what I learned in business and make a real
impact for people like them.”
That shared drive led to the creation of Room 35; it's a name chosen to spark curiosity and
conversation. “We figured if we could get the right people in the room, we could do some really
amazing things,” McVey said.
The numbers, he added, nod lightly to numerology they explored early on (three for Gray and five for
McVey).
Scaling Local Success
From that vision grew a practical model for entrepreneurial
acceleration. Their flagship programs — Core 60, The Blueprint and Capital Matters — provide
a continuum of support, from licensing and financial literacy to scaling operations and securing
contracts.
“Our primary work is to help folks who are ready to accelerate,” McVey said.
“We’re here to help them scale up.”
For Gray, that means hands-on engagement.
“What we really provide is that one-on-one business consulting and support,” he said.
“We help them get contracts, create systems, build teams and connect with the right
partners.”
Room 35’s programs are designed not just to train but to transform, helping firms move from
$100,000 in revenue toward the million-dollar mark.
The firm’s collaborative philosophy has drawn support from partners like the Southwest Michigan
First Chamber, the City of Kalamazoo, Can-Do Kalamazoo, the Kalamazoo Community Foundation, the Michigan
Economic Development Corporation, ELITE Companies and AVB as well as financial institutions and general
contractors.
In partnership with Southwest Michigan First, Room 35 is helping expand its Blueprint accelerator and
outreach efforts through the Trusted Connector Grant, a Michigan Economic Development Corporation
initiative that funds organizations supporting underrepresented small businesses. The collaboration is
extending Room 35’s entrepreneurial training model to more communities across Southwest
Michigan.
“Everything we do is based around partnerships that create more win-win situations,” McVey
said.
Investing in Community Impact
Room 35’s impact is tangible. The firm has
worked with more than 100 entrepreneurs across the region. Longtime clients such as Murray Davis of
Optimal Fire Protection, Rick Barnes of Perpetual Motion and Zjanice Carter of Carter Contracting (along
with new Blueprint participant Darnell Clay of Valley Vision) show how tailored consulting and community
partnerships can translate into measurable community growth.
“It feels really good to see the vision coming to life,” Gray said. “Helping the
community, helping entrepreneurs, helping the economy — it’s almost like a dream happening
in real time.”
That sense of purpose extends beyond business metrics. McVey sees Room 35’s work as a regional
investment.
“It feels special to be at the cusp of some really great growth,” he said. “We kind
of look at ourselves as early investors in the community. We’re dedicating time and committed to
impact.”
As Southwest Michigan continues to attract new state funding and development opportunities, Room 35 is
ensuring those dollars reach the local entrepreneurs who can turn them into jobs, homes and stronger
neighborhoods.
“We always want people to feel accepted,” Gray said. “Being an entrepreneur
isn’t crazy. It’s something our community needs.”
To learn more about Room 35, visit www.roomthirtyfive.com.
Member Testimonial
Joining the Southwest Michigan First Chamber has been truly transformative for NewCraft Cabinetry
– and for me personally. From their expert guidance and encouragement in securing our MBE
certification to the insightful small-business development series, every resource has helped us grow.
Most importantly, the chance to connect with other local companies committed to mutual support has been
invaluable. We’re proud to be a member of the Southwest Michigan First Chamber.
Sam Ramon
President, General Manager
NewCraft Cabinetry
