Evaluating Detroit's $410K Investment: Who Really Gains from This Opportunity?

Detroit is poised to receive $410,000 in funding from state initiatives aimed at fostering innovation among local entrepreneurs and emerging graduates. This investment arrives in a city where Black residents have historically thrived without significant support. As startup activity surges amidst a delicate population recovery, the focus pivots to the effective deployment of resources and their intended beneficiaries, particularly longtime residents. This month, Detroit and Michigan Women Forward secured a combined $410,000 through the Make MI Home initiative. Aiming to retain and attract talent, the City of Detroit will receive $210,000 to establish the Detroit Tech Fellowship, which aids recent Michigan graduates in scaling startups across emerging sectors. Meanwhile, Michigan Women Forward will utilize $200,000 for its Founder Forward program, assisting local and returning entrepreneurs. The initiative underscores a dual commitment to equity, challenging systemic barriers and ensuring that growth prioritizes those who have long contributed to the city’s fabric.