Black Business Spotlight

Meet Tiko Blane, Owner of Blane Investment Group

When CenterPoint Energy announced they would be closing the plant where he worked, Tiko Blane decided that he was going to retire before anyone forced him into a role that he didn’t want. That pushed him into real estate. He learned everything he could, and with faith in God, savings, and belief in himself, he purchased, renovated and rented his first property: launching Blane Investment Group.

What is Blane Investment Group?

Blaine Investment Group is a full-service real estate investment company that transforms undervalued properties into quality homes. I purchase distressed or undervalued properties, renovate them, and either flip them for resale or add them to my rental portfolio.  

Why did you start this business?

I’ve always admired leaders like Rev. Brooks and followed the housing developments that he brings to life. He inspired me.  When I found out my job at CenterPoint was going to change, it forced me to start thinking of a new path. I wanted to do something that would improve the community but also allow me to provide for my family.  I believed that I could do that with real estate.

What do you hope this business will provide for the community?

There is a real need for housing in Evansville- especially affordable units. I’ve heard the city is short of about 3,000 units and homelessness continues to be a challenge.  For me, this work isn’t just about business; it’s a chance to impact my community in a meaningful way. Eventually I want to build multi-family rental housing and contribute to solving the housing shortage. I want to be part of the solution, and I want people who come after me to look at my journey and say, “If he can do it, I can do it too.”

What has been your biggest challenge in launching your business?

Credit — for sure. In the beginning, that was the biggest hurdle. I went to 10 or 15 banks to get a loan, and they all told me no. My credit score wasn’t high enough, and I didn’t have the experience yet. For my first deal, I spent my savings on the down payment, then opened credit accounts at hardware stores just to finish the rehab. It was a real “bet on yourself” moment. But I believed in myself, so I pushed through-even doing some of the rehab work myself. Honestly, a lot of the barrier is mental. I had to prove to myself that I could do it. And once I finished the first project, it clicked for me.

What is your advice to aspiring entrepreneurs?

First, work on your credit. Both personal and business credit matter, especially early on. Relationships are key. Friends and family are not going to sustain your business. Usually, it’s someone you don’t know yet. I got my first bank loan because someone I knew in the industry gave me a referral. Get in the right rooms and don’t be afraid to shake hands and ask questions. Don’t be a “secret agent.” Tell people what you do because you never know who wants to help you. You must believe in yourself and act. God lines up people and opportunities, but you must move. Don’t let fear stop you. Finally, be a student of the game. Keep learning, keep asking questions, and keep showing up. Faith comes by hearing — sometimes you need to hear things over and over before they stick.

Contact Information
Blane Investment Group

Tiko Blane

Ph: 812-432-2024

Email: blaneinvestmentgroup@gmail.com