Nicole Hudgins – Business Strategist | Infrastructure & Program Development Specialist | Grant WriterNicole Hudgins is a Business Infrastructure and Program Development Specialist, Strategic Architect, and expert Grant Writer with over two decades of experience helping individuals and organizations turn ideas into fully structured, fundable, and scalable ventures. With a deep understanding of both business operations and community needs, Nicole builds custom solutions that lead to lasting impact.Born and raised in Detroit, Nicole overcame childhood poverty and the foster care system to become a straight-A student, honors graduate, and lifelong learner. In 2004, she founded The Escalady Organization, a grassroots nonprofit dedicated to reducing youth violence and substance abuse—funded entirely out of her own pocket and driven by her unwavering passion for at-risk youth.Nicole has launched successful ventures across the U.S., France, and Côte d’Ivoire, building an international trade business that turned thrift store finds into thousands in profit. Between 2016–2019, she earned over $375,000 selling jewelry, apparel, and luxury goods out of her car and vending at local stores.Today, Nicole specializes in guiding entrepreneurs and nonprofits through the full development cycle—from EIN registration and board structuring to 250+ page program development, grant applications, and continuation funding. Her recent success includes securing $25,075 from Forgotten Harvest for a church kitchen renovation project, and securing $150,000 for a violence prevention program.Nicole is a visionary who combines lived experience with strategic brilliance. She empowers others to grow, fund, and sustain their missions—and she brings unmatched heart, skill, and dedication to every project she touches.
