The Livonia-based Olga Loizon Memorial Foundation, which recognizes women entrepreneurs in honor of Olga’s Kitchen founder Olga Loizon, has named Deanna Waun, managing director of MTB Consulting, as its new president. Lisa Session, the founder of Detroit-based restaurant Da Bomb Taco and a past recipient of the Olga Loizon Memorial Foundation grant, also has joined the board.
“More than 50 years ago, Olga Loizon was faced with a myriad of challenges as a woman in business. She persevered and went on to create one of the state’s most iconic brands,” says Waun. “Today, the Olga Loizon Memorial Foundation honors her legacy and trailblazing spirit by supporting women entrepreneurs as they navigate the complex landscape of entrepreneurship and overcome barriers to grow their businesses in Michigan.”
Session says, “As an entrepreneur who has built a successful restaurant thanks in part to a grant from the Olga Loizon Memorial Foundation, I have seen first-hand the impact a capital infusion has on a small business. In my new role as a foundation board member, I look forward to supporting women as they work to leverage their innovation to create thriving businesses that serve their communities.”
The foundation also announced that grant applications are open for women building businesses in Michigan coinciding with International Women’s Day on Saturday, March 8.
Continuing through March 29, interested women can apply for the Foundation grants at olgas.com/foundation. Applicants must live in the U.S., be actively building their business in Michigan, show financial need and provide a formal business plan as part of the selection process.
Those interested in supporting the Olga Loizon Memorial Foundation mission can make direct donations at olgas.com/donate or by ordering their meal “Olga’s Way” at Olga’s Kitchen locations across the state.
