Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Lewis
Hi Jessica, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Mobu Enterprises started with a simple but powerful vision I had – to transform the construction industry by using sustainable, modular techniques. The idea came from recognizing the potential of repurposing shipping containers into affordable, eco-friendly housing and commercial spaces. At the time, I saw a growing need for sustainable living options, and I knew this approach could address housing shortages, reduce environmental impact, and offer something truly innovative to real estate developers.
We started small, focusing on a few container-based projects where we could demonstrate the value of what we were doing. Through hard work and determination, along with strategic partnerships, we began to grow and take on larger, more complex projects. As word spread about the quality and efficiency of our work, our reputation grew, and so did our business.
Today, Mobu Enterprises has become a leader in the modular construction industry. We’ve successfully completed residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments, all while staying true to our commitment to sustainability. What started as a simple idea has evolved into something much bigger, and I’m excited to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, while creating high-quality, sustainable spaces that benefit both people and the environment.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, especially being a Black entrepreneur in an industry that is traditionally resistant to change and innovation. One of the biggest challenges has been overcoming skepticism—both about the viability of modular construction and the ability of a minority-owned business to execute large-scale projects. Early on, we faced pushback from potential clients and investors who were unsure about trusting something different, especially when it came to using shipping containers for high-quality, sustainable housing.
Access to capital has also been a major hurdle. Like many minority-owned businesses, we faced significant barriers when it came to securing financing. Without the same network or resources that larger, more established companies have, it was tough to convince investors and lenders to believe in our vision. We had to be incredibly resourceful and strategic, often reinvesting what little profits we made back into the business to keep growing.
Another struggle has been navigating the regulatory environment. Zoning laws and building codes weren’t always designed with modular construction in mind, which created additional hurdles to get projects approved. We had to educate local governments and work closely with regulatory bodies to ensure they understood the benefits and feasibility of our approach.
But through persistence, resilience, and a strong belief in what we’re doing, we’ve been able to overcome those challenges. Every struggle has made us stronger and more determined to prove that not only is modular construction the future, but that minority-owned businesses like Mobu Enterprises can lead the way.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At Mobu Enterprises, we specialize in modular construction, transforming shipping containers into eco-friendly, sustainable housing and commercial spaces. Our mission is to provide affordable, high-quality building solutions that reduce environmental impact while meeting the growing demand for innovative real estate options. What sets us apart is our ability to merge sustainability with efficiency—we’re known for completing projects faster than traditional construction methods without compromising on quality or design.
Our focus on repurposing shipping containers allows us to create durable, flexible structures that are not only cost-effective but also significantly reduce the use of new building materials. We integrate energy-efficient systems, such as solar panels, water conservation systems, and smart home technologies, directly into the design of our units, offering a product that is sustainable from day one.
What we’re most proud of is our commitment to innovation and sustainability. We’re not just building structures; we’re reshaping how people think about construction. Whether it’s a multi-unit residential complex or a mixed-use commercial space, we take pride in pushing the boundaries of what modular construction can achieve while maintaining a focus on affordability and environmental responsibility.
For your readers, we want them to know that Mobu Enterprises offers a unique blend of customizable, eco-friendly, and scalable solutions. Whether they’re looking for residential units, commercial spaces, or mixed-use developments, our modular approach can meet their needs with efficiency, quality, and sustainability at the forefront. We are committed to delivering projects that not only meet but exceed expectations, providing long-term value both financially and environmentally.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
When it comes to risk-taking, I believe it’s an essential part of growth, both personally and professionally. As an entrepreneur, especially in an industry like modular construction that challenges traditional norms, I’ve learned that taking calculated risks is necessary to innovate and push boundaries. Risk, in my view, isn’t something to be avoided—it’s something to be managed wisely.
One of the biggest risks I took with Mobu Enterprises was diving into modular construction using repurposed shipping containers. At the time, many people in the industry were skeptical about using containers as a legitimate building material, particularly for larger, high-quality projects. There were concerns about structural integrity, zoning issues, and whether the market would even embrace this type of construction. But I saw the potential—both in terms of sustainability and cost efficiency—and decided to take the leap.
It wasn’t just a financial risk; it was also about building trust with clients, investors, and regulatory bodies who weren’t familiar with the concept. We had to educate people about the benefits of modular construction and prove that it could not only match but surpass traditional methods in terms of quality, time savings, and environmental impact.
The risks paid off, but not without challenges along the way. There were moments when the hurdles seemed overwhelming—whether it was securing permits or convincing investors to back the vision—but I always believed that the long-term gains would outweigh the short-term uncertainties.
For me, taking risks means stepping into the unknown but doing so with a plan. It’s about being informed, trusting your instincts, and knowing when to pivot if things aren’t working. I don’t view myself as a reckless risk-taker, but I do believe that without taking bold steps, we limit our potential. Every risk I’ve taken with Mobu Enterprises has been a step towards creating something truly innovative, and I think that’s where the rewards are found—in the willingness to take that step when others hesitate.
Pricing:
- $150-175/sf for custom builds
- $1-3/sf for design services
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shippingliving.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shippingliving?igsh=c3FjamxzYjFkYzJ5
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shippingliving?mibextid=ZbWKwL
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@shippingliving?si=ePS1sDhoJvPuOf5U
Image Credits
@catmaxphoto for my personal photo
