From growing up in a family rooted in faith, education, and entrepreneurship, Cassius F. Butts learned early the power of service, perseverance, and purpose. Those values continue to shape his journey today—as a nationally respected speaker, business advisor, former federal executive, educator, and advocate for economic growth.
Cassius began his federal career as a Presidential Management Fellow under the George W. Bush Administration with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). There, he was appointed Branch Chief of the Real Estate Owned Division, led the division’s inaugural Diversity Committee, and helped develop a multimillion-dollar marketing procurement process.
He was later appointed by President Barack Obama as Regional Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)—becoming the first African American to serve in that role for Region IV. Under his leadership, the SBA achieved five consecutive record-breaking years, delivering over $30 billion in small business lending across eight southern states.
In the state of Georgia, Cassius has earned the trust of multiple governors. In 2019, Governor Nathan Deal appointed him chairman of the Fort McPherson Local Redevelopment Authority, leading the redevelopment of a 487-acre former military base—now home to one of Atlanta’s largest economic projects involving Tyler Perry Studios and T.D. Jakes Real Estate Ventures. After Governor Deal’s term was over, Governor Brian Kemp reappointed Cassius to his chairman position, and also appointed him in 2020 to the Georgia Department of Economic Development Board and the Georgia Tourism Foundation Board in 2024.
As the founder and principal of Capital Fortitude Business Advisors, a nationally noted consulting firm based in Atlanta, GA, Cassius leads efforts that empower individuals, executives, and organizations to solve complex challenges, navigate leadership transitions, and develop capital strategies for long-term success. He has also advised on global capital initiatives, helping clients align growth with purpose through tailored solutions in both public and private sectors.
Cassius is deeply committed to education and mentorship. After leaving federal service, he served as an Executive in Residence at Georgia State University’s Robinson College of Business. His contributions helped the school receive the national recognition as the “Second Most Innovative University” by U.S. News & World Report in 2018 and become only the second university in Georgia to offer a degree in entrepreneurship.
A proud Morehouse College graduate, Cassius also holds a BA in Psychology, an MPA from Clark Atlanta University and a Grant Writing Certificate from Emory University’s Osher Life Long Learning Institute.
He authored Exceptional: Being the Exception to the Rule and co-authored the best-selling book, Pursuit:365 Business Edition.
Cassius thrives on sharing his knowledge and experience to help others succeed—whether mentoring professionals, guiding entrepreneurs, or advising decision-makers. He believes leadership is most powerful when it lifts others and leaves a lasting impact.