When Jamauri Bogan started Bogan Developments LLC in March 2020, it was fairly important to do it right…the importance of the project couldn’t be overlooked—“affordable housing for all.”
Bogan Developments is a newly formed real estate development company focused on creating affordable housing for all. Jamauri’s real estate journey started in 2018 with several successful builds in Battle Creek and Kalamazoo and he continues that dedication citing a “deep passion for community service and housing.” His work creating affordable housing combines both passions.
At a (relatively) young 23 years of age, Jamauri realized that starting his dream business required more knowledge than he had at his fingertips – and support from others. “I found out there was so much I did not know,” he said, “but once I realized SCORE provides mentors that are seasoned business professionals in my area of focus – I was ALL in!”
Thus, Bogan Developments successfully launched.
Jamauri worked with SCORE Certified Mentor Scott Carter who advised him on business development, mentorship, and on making connections throughout the greater Kalamazoo area. According to Carter, “Jamari is a go getter, we provided entrance to names of support organizations and he went after it. He now sends clients to us. Bogan who attended Western Michigan University where he played as a running back on the WMU Bronco Football team, finished his college career ranked sixth all-time in program history in career rushing yards with 3,327 and tied for sixth all-time in career points with 258.
Jamauri recently learned he has been awarded a $500,000 Brownfield Redevelopment Grant by the EGLE Brownfield Assessment and Redevelopment Section who vetted the project proposal for the 315 Frank Street Live Work project.
When asked what he would tell others who are driven to start their own businesses, Jamauri had three tips:
- Believe you can do ANYTHING!
- Be flexible – Your plan today will look different tomorrow.
- DON’T QUIT EVER!
