In the world of entrepreneurship, resilience and innovation are the hallmarks of success. In the midst of unprecedented challenges, Mario Kelly, the CEO of Believe 313 Staffing, exemplifies these qualities and more. As the driving force behind one of Detroit's leading minority staffing businesses, Kelly has not only weathered the storm of a global pandemic but has also emerged as a beacon of hope for his community.

Believe 313 Staffing stands out as a testament to Kelly's vision and determination. When the world faced uncertainty and businesses struggled to stay afloat, Kelly rose to the occasion. His company became a lifeline for individuals seeking employment and businesses in need of staffing solutions. Through his efforts, Kelly not only sustained his business but also provided vital support to the community he serves.

One of the pivotal moments came in April 2020 when Believe 313 Staffing secured a contract with Henry Ford Health Systems, one of the largest hospital chains in the region. This partnership not only created jobs but also played a crucial role in supporting the healthcare industry during a time of immense strain. With 82 individuals employed in the linen department, including four directly hired, Kelly demonstrated his commitment to making a tangible difference in people's lives.

The momentum continued to build as Believe 313 Staffing expanded its reach, securing contracts with prominent entities like Balfour. Through this partnership, Kelly's company provided post-event stadium cleaning services for iconic venues such as Ford Field, Comerica Park, and Little Caesars Arena. This initiative not only bolstered employment opportunities but also contributed to the revitalization of Detroit's vibrant cultural scene.

Beyond these achievements, Believe 313 Staffing has played a crucial role in various community initiatives, including staffing for demolition sites and traffic management projects. Kelly's commitment to social responsibility is evident in every aspect of his business, demonstrating a holistic approach to entrepreneurship that goes beyond profit margins.

In addition to his staffing endeavors, Kelly also oversees Believe 313 Cleaning, a company dedicated to providing top-tier cleaning services to corporate clients like Shinola Headquarters and Ford Motor Company manufacturing locations. This diversification reflects Kelly's versatility as a leader and his ability to adapt to evolving market demands.

January 2023 marked another milestone as Believe 313 Staffing began operations at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. This expansion showcased Kelly's ambition and determination to grow his business beyond regional boundaries. Furthermore, the company's presence in Boston, secured through a $2 million government cleaning contract, underscores Kelly's strategic acumen in tapping into new markets.

Amidst accolades such as being named the 2024 SSA Cleaning Company of the Year and the 2024 CBN Conference of the Year, Kelly continues to push the boundaries of entrepreneurship. In 2024, he founded the nonprofit organization Card Cage Rage, dedicated to empowering citizens by guiding them on the path to entrepreneurship. Through mentorship and practical guidance, Card Cage Rage aims to help individuals discover their purpose, establish their businesses, and scale their ventures for long-term success.

As we reflect on Mario Kelly's journey, it is clear that he embodies the spirit of resilience, innovation, and community engagement that defines a true entrepreneur. His unwavering dedication to serving others and his ability to turn adversity into opportunity make him a deserving recipient of the Beautiful Machine Magazine Entrepreneur of the Year award. Mario Kelly's story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere, reminding us that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.