Denkyem /den•CHem/
Denkyem represents adaptability and unity. The symbol depicts a crocodile and represents the proverb, 'The crocodile lives in the water, yet breathes the air'. Just like the crocodile, which thrives both in water and on land, entrepreneurs must embrace adaptability to succeed.
Our logo, featuring a two-headed crocodile, symbolizes the strength of unity because if we fight over food, we starve. We share the same stomach. Denkyem believes in collaboration over competition. We understand that by working together, we all eat.
We believe that a thriving Black Business Community serves as an anchor to Black economic mobility.
Denkyem Co-op is a Social Purpose Corporation (SPC) based in Washington state. We are a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), providing direct funding to Black-owned businesses looking to increase their capacity.
MISSION: Denkyem creates safe pathways for Black entrepreneurship and innovation.
VISION: We envision a world where Black-owned small businesses have the resources, support, and trust needed to sustain and grow their enterprises; serving as a beacon in the greater community.
Core Values
The Story of Our Founders
While Dion was teaching third grade, Rudy was serving on the Board of Directors at the same school. After two years of building a relationship over meals and conversations, the two of them found common ground. They were both passionate about promoting industry and self-efficacy in the community. Through this shared vision, Denkyem was formed.
Dion Cook
Co-Founder & CEO
Rudy Gadre
Co-Founder
Rudy Was the General Counsel at Facebook, and prior to that, the fourth lawyer hired at Amazon. He is dedicated to investing into Seattle. As Denkyem's biggest advocate, he provides financial backing and strategic insight. In addition, Rudy is an active angel investor and general Partner at Founder's Co-op.
The Team
Amanda Williams
Chief Advancement Officer
Amanda is a people-centered educator and the founder of Seattle Green Book. With over 10 years in marketing and communications for organizations, she has a passion for weaving together information, people, and resources to expand opportunities that invest back into communities.
Paige Woods
Director of Strategic Operations
Paige is a strategist, researcher and storyteller with a focus on reimagining a more just and equitable future. As a trained ethnographer, Paige believes in the power of community-driven research and design thinking to produce ideas, spaces and strategies that promote and sustain the well-being of Black communities.
Kenny Shelton
Fractional Chief Lending Officer
Kenny is an experienced professional with a strong background in community, business, and economic development who is dedicated to driving sustainable growth and fostering positive change in local communities.
David Combs
Director of Lending
David is a Relationship-focused and results-driven professional with over a decade of experience helping small and minority-owned businesses access capital, technical assistance, and strategic growth opportunities.
Horizon Tactics
Fractional COO
Connecting mission-driven leaders with fractional expertise to navigate growth and transformation.
CFO Selections
Fractional CFO Advisor
CFO Selections® LLC is a regional professional services firm offering scalable, customized solutions from strategy and leadership through exacting project execution.
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