Greater West Dayton Incubator Has New Director
The University of Dayton has named alumna, educator, community advocate and entrepreneur Juanita-Michelle Darden as director of the Greater West Dayton Incubator.
Darden brings experience founding popular local dining options Soul Food Carryout and
the former Third Perk Coffeehouse & Wine Bar. She also has a background in education,
including 12 years as a tenured associate professor of mathematics at Sinclair Community
College, where she was instrumental in developing programs aimed at reducing barriers to
success in mathematics for underrepresented students. Darden holds a master of science in education from UD.
“She brings a passion for community and a proven track record of lifting underrepresented
entrepreneurs,” said Vince Lewis, UD’s associate vice president of entrepreneurial initiatives. “She has created spaces that celebrate local talent, build connections and drive real economic growth. We’re excited to see her lead the Greater West Dayton Incubator.”
Darden outlined three priorities for the incubator: increasing awareness and use of resources among Greater West Dayton entrepreneurs; reactivating the advisory council to ensure community voices shape the incubator’s direction; and overseeing the launch of its permanent space.
"I'm honored to lead the Greater West Dayton Incubator and to work alongside passionate entrepreneurs and community members," Darden said. "Together, we'll build a more inclusive and prosperous future for West Dayton."
The incubator, an initiative between the University of Dayton's L. William Crotty Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and The Entrepreneurs' Center, supports underrepresented
and under resourced entrepreneurs through micro-lending, consulting and educational programs.
Since 2020, the incubator has worked with over 350 entrepreneurs, helping to secure more than $80,000 in micro-loans, $100,000 in equity grants and nearly $400,000 in contracts for
underrepresented business owners through University of Dayton partnerships.
This article was written by Daphne Graeter and originally appeared in the Dayton Daily News, June 5, 2025.
Yes,overall sound 's great anything that will help the west side of the city. I will support it.