If you have recycled something in the city of Detroit, there is a good chance you have met Matthew Naimi. The Midtown/Cass Corridor resident runs the city of Detroit's
Recycle Here program and co-founded Recycle Green consulting firm and
Michigan Green Safe Products. If you have question about being green in Detroit, Naimi has the answer.
That helps explain why the slogan for his business in BEE Green. The 36-year-old University of Tennessee alumni, with a bachelor's in political science/philosophy, has used the green economy to create four full-time jobs and keep a couple of independent contractors busy.
Describe your business in two sentences or less?The Recycle Green is a full-service green consulting and green event and
marketing company. We specialize in the creation and implementation of green initiative for businesses and events.
Why did you decide to set up shop in Detroit?Detroit is a blank canvas in which to operate. The city needs small business
and often has an untapped customer base.
What are some of the advantages to doing business here?Lack of competition.
What do you see in Detroit that other people who live outside the city don't?Loyal customers who love to 'know the owner" and support local business.
What advice would you give to someone who was thinking about opening a business in the Motor City?Make sure that you know that things move slow in the city in regards to permits and inspections. Also, be prepared for higher insurance rates, high taxes, property crime and security issues.
If you could change one thing about Detroit, what would it be?Lack of mass transit. Once people are in a car, they can go anywhere. People get on a bus, and they will stay local ...
Source: Matt Naimi, director of Recycle Here and co-founder of Recycle Green and Michigan Green Safe Products
Writer: Jon Zemke
Enjoy this story?
Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.