As development opportunities expand in Detroit, Emerging Developers Roadshow offers connections to info & resources
- New & aspiring developers are encouraged to attend October 2 workshop
- Event will offer great networking opportunities, as well as connections to resources
- Panels to help developers build their foundation of knowledge, contacts
The City of Detroit and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation invite those looking to get their start in development in the City of Detroit to register for the upcoming Emerging Developers Roadshow at the Marygrove Conservancy October 2nd from 9am to 4pm. The daylong event is designed to connect new and aspiring developers with the resources they need to get started.
“Development opportunities, both large and small, are everywhere in neighborhoods across the City of Detroit. We know the talent to make these projects happen is right here in Detroit, but sometimes people don’t have access to resources or just don’t know where to start,” said Amanda Elias, Deputy Group Executive of Neighborhood Economic Development for the City of Detroit. “The MEDC is an important partner in helping bring more minority developers to the table, and we are excited to work with them to host the Emerging Developers Roadshow here in Detroit.”
“Too often, emerging developers may run into barriers when it comes to accessing capital or connections that are needed to be successful in the development world. Through interactive opportunities like the Emerging Developer Roadshow, we’re working to expand access to this important network and create opportunities for all Michiganders to succeed,” said Michele Wildman, Executive Vice President of Economic Development Incentives at the MEDC. “By collaborating with critical partners like the city of Detroit, we’re committed to making sure that everyone, no matter their background or experience level, has access to the tools and resources they need to make it in Michigan.”
The Roadshow will not only provide aspiring developers with access to resources and knowledge of how development works in the City of Detroit, it will also give them priceless networking opportunities with a variety of developers already doing the work, such as Invest Detroit and Cinnaire, and connect them to key contacts in city offices who assist in projects in the development pipeline, such as BSEED, Planning & Development and the Office of Neighborhood Economic Development.
The workshop will be held from 9am to 4pm at Marygrove Conservancy at 8425 West McNichols Rd. The program features multiple panels on topics including acquisition, property development, and financing. Between each session, scheduled breaks will allot time for developers to network with one another and the panelists.
Brandon Hodges, founder of TRIBE Development, is one of the panelists scheduled to participate in the event. He says the culture in the City of Detroit is ripe for aspiring developers. “Detroit provides an opportunity for emerging developers that few other cities across the country can emulate. The ability to acquire land and real property is significant, which provides the chance for developers to leave an impact on their communities while also expanding their businesses and balance sheets," said Hodges. "The roadshow is just one of the ways new developers can learn from practitioners and local stakeholders and gain practical knowledge on the development process and City of Detroit opportunities.”
Detroit is the last stop on the MEDC Emerging Developers Roadshow tour, which kicked off in July. Though registration is not required, it is recommended aspiring developers register in advance at bit.ly/3PTFhhQ.
About the MEDC The Michigan Economic Development Corporation, in collaboration with more than 100 economic development partners, markets Michigan as the place to do business, assists businesses in their growth strategies, and fosters the growth of vibrant communities across the state. MEDC delivers tailored assistance to invest and expand your operations and workforce in Michigan communities. Through collaboration with more than 100 partners, we have tools and resources to support businesses at any stage of growth. No matter your business size, industry, or your community needs, the MEDC’s many programs and local and regional partners have resources to help you.