Innovation thrives when experienced champions support passionate leaders. That’s the driving force behind PDFF’s E3 initiative, which connects promising changemakers with seasoned mentors to strengthen Delaware’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
One of those changemakers is Dubard McGriff Jr., founder of DUEN—an organization that partners with nonprofits, government agencies, and financial institutions to tackle deep-rooted economic and social challenges.
Dubard brings a proven track record of turning insight into action. He played a key role in securing True Access Capital’s $2.4 million investment on North Market Street and was selected to support JPMorgan Chase’s Equal Hiring Initiative. Now, as an E3 member, he’s building on that momentum with guidance from his Entrepreneurial Champion and Pete’s 100 member, Tim Gibbs.
A Founder’s Journey: Q&A with Dubard McGriff Jr.
Could you give us a brief overview of DUEN? What’s the work you’re doing, and how do you hope to impact Delaware in the long term?
DUEN is a strategic consulting firm dedicated to helping underserved communities build economic resilience. We transfer knowledge and data into lasting change. Our process moves communities from insight to action through a structured, collaborative process. We work alongside nonprofits, government agencies, and financial institutions to solve deep-rooted economic and social challenges.
Our long-term vision is to transform how Delaware builds with, not just for, its communities. By fostering strong partnerships, elevating resident-led solutions, and building pipelines to opportunity, DUEN aims to shape a Delaware where all communities have the power and resources to thrive.
How has the E3 program supported your growth so far, and what have you enjoyed about being part of PDFF?
The E3 program and PDFF have played a major role in transforming DUEN from a side hustle into a structured, purpose-driven business. When I started DUEN, I didn’t have a clear business model. I was just doing the work and figuring it out as I went. The scoping process helped me step back, evaluate every part of the operation, and build a real business strategy. It gave me the tools to articulate my services, set clear rates, and establish the back-office systems I needed to operate professionally and sustainably.
Working closely with Tim has been a standout experience. His ability to listen, ask the right questions, and guide me through concepts like root cause analysis helped sharpen my thinking and elevate the way I approach problem-solving with clients. Thanks to PDFF, I now have a stronger foundation, a clear pitch, and a better understanding of how to grow DUEN with intention and impact.
A Champion’s Perspective: Q&A with Tim Gibbs on Mentorship
What strategies have you used to help Dubard, and how have you seen them being implemented?
Aside from simply getting to know each other as human beings, and learning about the work of his program(s), I focus on what I view as being core/essential tools that may be useful in any number of situations: root cause analysis, the Kellogg Logic Mode, and Lean6Sigma. With time and trust, I hope to be a safe space to vent as well when things are going sideways, and to express whatever else any mentee might have on their mind.
What have you enjoyed the most about being connected to PDFF and the E3 community?
Not to sound like a broken record, but I really do enjoy paying it forward and providing for others, mentoring similar to what I have received throughout my career. In addition, it engages me in other important work happening in our community in a distinctly unique manner.
Join Pete’s 100 Today
Pete’s 100 honors Pete du Pont’s visionary leadership and the iconic “Pete’s 3000” campaign, which ignited a movement for progress and innovation.
Watch Tim Gibbs share why mentoring the next generation matters and how stepping up as an Entrepreneurial Champion helps build a stronger, more connected ecosystem of changemakers and future leaders.
To become a member of Pete’s 100, contact Andre Johnson at [email protected]. If you’re interested in becoming an Entrepreneurial Champion, reach out to Jonathan Barnes at [email protected]. You can also support our mission by visiting our donation page.