I’m Billy, and I’m raising funds for my business, Black Anvil Customs, a startup classic automotive restoration shop in Raytown, Missouri. This has been a lifelong dream of mine. Black Anvil Customs is being built to serve people who love older cars and need quality paint, body, and mechanical repair work. I purchased a 16,000-square-foot building with a vision not only for the shop, but also to eventually open a coffee shop in the space and create something special for the community. I also hope this project can help breathe new life into a historic building and be part of the continued revitalization of downtown Raytown.

After buying the building, I learned that I need to install a fire sprinkler system before I can open to the public. That unexpected requirement has created a major hurdle at a critical moment for my startup. The funds from this fundraiser will help cover the down payment needed to secure a bank loan for the sprinkler system and help me obtain temporary occupancy status so Black Anvil Customs can begin doing business with the public. If you’re able to give, share, or simply support this effort, it would mean so much to me. Your help would not only move my business forward, but also support a dream I’ve worked hard to build for myself and my community.