In a transformative leap for both faith-based innovation and Black tech leadership, ChurchSpace, the Houston-born startup often dubbed the "Airbnb for churches," has announced the relocation of its headquarters to Detroit following a $1.2 million funding raise. Co-founded by Krystal Jeanne “Day” Edwards and Emmanuel Brown, ChurchSpace is on a mission to help churches unlock the economic power of their underutilized buildings—turning empty pews and fellowship halls into hubs of opportunity.

In a world where fewer than 1% of venture capital dollars go to Black founders, this funding round represents more than financial growth—it’s a testament to resilience, vision, and divine purpose. Backed by top investors such as Black Ops Ventures, Minor Capital, and Michigan Rise, and now supported by the City of Detroit and Mayor Mike Duggan, ChurchSpace is poised to spark a new era of empowerment through faith-based entrepreneurship.

“This isn’t just tech—it’s about godly stewardship, economic justice, and making sure churches can serve and survive,” says CEO Day Edwards, whose journey is deeply rooted in personal sacrifice, ministry, and legacy.

A Vision Born in Houston, Expanded with Purpose

ChurchSpace launched in Texas with a clear mission: empower churches to become financially sustainable by renting their spaces for events, outreach programs, education, and even last-mile delivery services. Since its inception, the platform has enabled churches in Texas to earn up to $100,000 annually, allowing them to reinvest in youth programs, food pantries, shelter initiatives, and more.

The inspiration for ChurchSpace comes directly from Edwards’ own life. “I watched my mom struggle just to serve,” she shares. “She built a church from the ground up, but the financial and emotional strain nearly broke our family. She prayed through overdue bills, stress, and sleepless nights—until she passed from a heart attack and stroke, still trying to keep the ministry going.”

That powerful experience became the foundation of a company committed to ensuring churches no longer have to choose between spiritual calling and economic survival.

Detroit: A New Frontier for Sacred Innovation

Now, with a $1.2M infusion of funding and a strategic relocation to Detroit, ChurchSpace is embarking on a citywide partnership that aims to reimagine the role of church properties in one of America’s most historic religious communities.

“When God gives vision, He makes provision,” says Edwards. “Detroit is fertile ground for the kind of impact we’re building—where church buildings can once again be central to community life, but in new, sustainable ways.”

With the enthusiastic backing of Mayor Duggan, ChurchSpace is actively onboarding churches across Detroit, offering them the opportunity to generate consistent income while serving their neighborhoods seven days a week.

A Testament to Faith, Strategy, and Stewardship

While Emmanuel Brown led the groundbreaking funding effort, he emphasizes that the company’s strength lies in the powerful synergy between faith and strategy.

“This raise is more than a business milestone—it’s a testament to what happens when strategy meets faith, when the odds are defied and purpose outweighs circumstance,” Brown says.

Together, Brown and Edwards are proving that churches can be more than houses of worship—they can be centers of economic empowerment, platforms for equity, and sacred spaces of community transformation.

ChurchSpace by the Numbers:

$1.2 million raised in latest funding round

200+ churches already onboarded

$100K+ annual income potential for churches on the platform

Active partnerships in Texas and now Detroit

Supported by Mayor Mike Duggan, City of Detroit, and top venture firms

For more info, visit www.bookchurchspace.com