Former Mayor Betsy Hodges served as the 47th mayor of Minneapolis. During her time as mayor, Hodges focused on entrepreneurial support and assessed where city policies were creating barriers for investment and growth. She implemented the “Business Made Simple” plan, which eliminated outdated ordinances and policies, funded training for entrepreneurs, streamlined the licensing process, and increased investment in technical support for entrepreneurs of color and cooperative ventures.

Hodges now serves as an advisor to cities and mayors as she works to improve equitable outcomes for people of color. Hodges currently resides in Washington D.C. with her husband Gary Cunningham.