Considering a home reno? Deirreon Durant of D2 (pronounced D-Squared) Contracting Solutions has your back.

Deirreon launched his company when he was released from incarceration. His wider mission is to prevent recidivism by providing opportunities in the construction trades. He joined GWDI’s 2022 Urban Elevation Accelerator cohort to take his business to the next level.

Keep reading to learn more about his entrepreneur journey.

LAUNCH DAYTON: INTRODUCE YOURSELF — WHO ARE YOU AND WHAT IS YOUR COMPANY?

Deirreon: My company is D2 Contracting Solutions we are a construction company that provides services for home remodel and renovations to other businesses and homeowners. My name is Deirreon Durant.

HOW DID YOUR COMPANY START?

My company started when I was released from incarceration. I had a vision of utilizing the knowledge I gained in a more positive and productive way.

WHY THIS IDEA?

I always had skills with my hands. I knew my mission to prevent recidivism through skilled trades and entrepreneurship could be fulfilled through the construction trades.

DID YOU ALWAYS WANT TO BE AN ENTREPRENEUR?

Every since I could remember, I have always wanted to work for myself and empower others who are part of my team and community.

WHAT IDENTITIES OR LIFE EXPERIENCES DO YOU BRING TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP THAT HELPED PREPARE YOU FOR THIS LIFESTYLE?

Always being a Hustler.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST BARRIER YOU’VE FACED ON YOUR ENTREPRENEUR JOURNEY?

Focusing on the importance of finances and knowing how money works.

WHY DO YOU LOVE WHAT YOU DO?

I feel a sense of freedom. Free to do what I want with my time. It empowers others to see what they can do with vision and determination.

HOW DID URBAN ELEVATION ACCELERATOR HELP YOU MOVE FORWARD?

It helped me shape my company and get some organization to help me grow and thrive. I would recommend these programs to every entrepreneur who is developing or thriving from the urban communities of Dayton. I appreciate all of the staff at the University of Dayton, the director of the Incubator, and the program facilitator for diligently working with us and helping to make our dreams come true.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER FELLOW OR ASPIRING ENTREPRENEURS?

Pay attention to the finances!

Our entrepreneur and small business coverage is powered by Launch Dayton, an organization that seeks to connect entrepreneurs to peers, resources and supporters while telling the story of the region's thriving entrepreneurial community.