"Alterna was the only financial institution that believed in my vision"

Meet Ryan Knight, an Alterna member since 2014.

Ryan has spent the last 15 years building multiple businesses and mentoring young entrepreneurs. After being laid off in 2009, he founded Detailing Knights, a mobile waterless car cleaning company. He also launched Knighthood Academy, a youth entrepreneurship program that aims to empower young people through hands-on business experience.

About the Business

Detailing Knights offers eco-friendly, waterless mobile car cleaning services directly to clients at their homes or offices. In addition to providing a green alternative to traditional car washes, they manufacture and sell plant-based cleaning products. What sets Detailing Knights apart is its Youth Entrepreneurship Training Program, which gives high school and college students the opportunity to learn entrepreneurial skills by running smaller versions of the company during the summer.

Why Alterna?

"Alterna was the only financial institution that believed in my vision," says Ryan. "Through their Access Community Capital Fund entrepreneur program, I received a $5,000 microloan that helped kickstart my business. Over the years, Alterna has continued to support my growth, including a recent $25,000 loan through their social enterprise stream. Their ongoing support has been instrumental in my business journey, which is why I encourage other entrepreneurs in my network to consider a credit union account, with Alterna being my top recommendation."

Embracing Digital Transformations

This year's theme resonates deeply with Ryan's experience. "At Detailing Knights, we've embraced automation and AI tools to enhance customer service, marketing, and operations. Our new CRM platform is making a huge difference in how we manage our business."

Franchise Expansion & Social Impact

Detailing Knights is expanding through a franchise model, a step Ryan believes will allow the business to scale while maintaining its social mission. "We wanted to create a 'business in a box' that could empower teenagers and adults to run their own businesses and become self-sufficient," explains Ryan. "Our goal is to show young people that entrepreneurship is a viable path. We’re proud to say that Detailing Knights not only reduces water waste by 99% but also creates opportunities for youth in the community."

This journey also led Ryan to audition for Dragon's Den, where he successfully pitched the company to Brian Scudamore, the founder of 1-800-GOT-JUNK, securing a deal to help franchise the business.

To learn more about Alterna’s Microfinance program click HERE or book an appointment to speak with a member of our team.