Category for Blog Entries
From two TechTown cubicles to a multi-million-dollar company, Carla Walker-Miller’s company provides energy efficiency services around the country Where does a small business begin and what do those early ups…
As TechTown Detroit’s 20th anniversary year comes to an end, we reflect on our work as a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation and are eager for what’s to come
We at sat down with Christianne Malone, TechTown’s chief program officer and Wayne State University’s assistant vice president for economic development, about TechTown’s role in the city’s entrepreneurial and economic development ecosystem
Funding came at a critical time for Hamissi Mamba and his team. In return, Baobab Fare now offers East African specialties and a passion for giving back.
Shop small this holiday season with apparel, accessories, home decor and more from TechTown Detroit clients and alumni
Dr. Paul Thomas used TechTown Detroit’s Retail Boot Camp experiences and connections to shift the healthcare focus from insurers to patients. At Plum Health Direct Primary Care, we believe…
Zach Berg, a TechTown Detroit Retail Boot Camp alumni and co-founder of Mongers’ Provisions, shares in-depth snapshot of his entrepreneurial journey As a small business owner, entrepreneur and co-founder of…
Through TechTown Detroit’s Retail Boot Camp and The SHOP marketplace, Scott Boateng gained the skills needed to increase sales and elevate his skincare business
More than 800 guests attended TechTown Detroit’s 10th annual Toast of the Town celebration and benefit in late September.
By Ned Staebler, president and CEO of TechTown Detroit and vice president for economic development at Wayne State University
Hasan Elsayed, a volunteer for our Ask an Expert program, talks about his role at Bank of America, providing financial advice to local entrepreneurs, common misconceptions about small business finances and more.
Sam Cerwin, founder of BeReworn, is building a community platform that allows individuals to host and participate in clothing swaps across the country — and the world.
From early-stage entrepreneurs to established organizations and businesses, TechTown Detroit provides workspaces and resources for achieving objectives. Four coworking members and tenants share their goals for the year and how TechTown is helping make those goals a reality.
Gabriela Ramírez-Arellano, a native to Mexico, has years of experience helping entrepreneurs navigate their business journeys. Here, she shares how entrepreneurs can thrive in a multilingual business environment.
Tiffany Cartwright, the 2024 Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest winner, is excited to open a store that offers her organic skincare products and supports underserved individuals in Detroit.
As Wayne State’s entrepreneurship hub, we provide students with an internship experience that will put them on their career trajectory.
Eight emerging founders in Detroit’s tech ecosystem traveled with TechTown to Austin to attend the annual SXSW conference.
In keeping with the theme of our 2024 Black History Month Conference, “Black Business Reunion: Uniting the Community for Prosperity,” which recognized Black business owners of all ages in Detroit, we’re highlighting a few Black entrepreneurs and alumni of TechTown’s programming during this Black History Month.
Pranita Dharmadhikari, founder and CEO of Innocelf, is a member of TechTown Detroit’s Professional services Network and will volunteer her time through our Ask an Expert program. Here, she shares tips for entrepreneurs to patent their ideas.
The Ascend Energy & Mobility Accelerator offers support to entrepreneurs creating solutions to energy and mobility problems in Detroit and Michigan.
Shop small this holiday season with apparel, accessories, home decor and more from TechTown Detroit clients and alumni.
These local organizations provide tutoring, workshops and other engaging educational activities for students of all ages.
As artificial intelligence (AI) increases in popularity, we provide tips on how entrepreneurs can use the technology to empower their small businesses.
In October, MedHealth participated in Michigan Tech Week (MTW) and Black Tech Weekend (BTW), two gatherings that celebrated emerging innovation in the Mitten State. Medical technology was only one of the many types…
As the annual Mexican holiday approaches, we take a look at the significance of the holiday and ways to support it around Detroit.
Shelly Ellis, regional managing partner at J. Galt Financial Suite, recently joined TechTown Detroit’s Professional Services Network and will volunteer her time through our Ask an Expert program. Here, she shares how she empowers small businesses through strategic credit management.
In honor of Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month, we’re highlighting some of our local Hispanic/Latinx clients who own and operate small businesses with their families. Lea este blog en español Being an…
Ahead of this milestone, we’re highlighting the nonprofit’s time as a TechTown tenant and its musical footprint in the community.
JustAir is a small and growing startup that is passionately dedicated to the belief that everyone deserves the right to breathe clean air. With a deep understanding that each breath we take profoundly impacts our health, they’re committed to supporting communities toward a cleaner breathing environment and fostering the well-being of all.
In late August, nine tech founders graduating from the Start Studio MVP Summer 2023 cohort, presented live demonstrations of their minimum viable products (MVPs) for a chance to win cash prizes.
In partnership with several organizations, in Michigan and around the Midwest, TechTown’s Catalyst Angel Program aims to support emerging angel investors in the Great Lakes Region who identify as Black, Latinx and/or women
Claudette Harris and Jennifer Ashman, members of TechTown’s Professional Services Network, share tips for elevating your customer service to generate more sales, increase brand loyalty and more.
Dayo Idowu, business development lead at Groove Capital, talks about his investing journey and joining TechTown Detroit’s Catalyst Program
TechTown’s chief operating officer Kelly Kozlowski pens an opinion piece on engaging and supporting your staff at the office
Members of TechTown’s Tech-based programs team and more than 20 tech founders affiliated with TechTown traveled to Cincinnati, Ohio, in July for the annual conference.
Certified financial planner and financial adviser LauRyn Williams shares her angel investing journey and involvement in TechTown’s Catalyst Angel Program.
Kaleena Eugene-Louis, creator of Zero To Wear, is a 2021 graduate of TechTown’s Start Studio Discovery program for tech founders.
In early June, TechTown Detroit and the community celebrated the 10 tech founders in the spring 2023 Start Studio Discovery cohort. This was the first in-person Start Studio Discovery Showcase since 2019.
In late May, TechTown crowned six Kickstart Award and People’s Choice Award winners that graduated from the 14th Retail Boot Camp cohort.
Cathryn Coleman, founder of Bouncing Around the Motor City and the 2023 Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest winner, looks forward to bringing a one-stop party rental shop experience to the city and beyond.
For Asian American and Pacific Islander month, we’re highlighting some local Asian-owned businesses that are alumni of Hatch Detroit by TechTown.
Did you know that TechTown Detroit has a coworking space? Our Collaborative Workspace and Facilities team has worked to curate a productive, inviting environment that fosters community and connection. Our…
During this recent event hosted by TechTown’s Tech-Based Programs, Detroit’s tech founders, developers and industry professionals had the opportunity to network, share ideas and learn from one another.
Cinco de Mayo commemorates the anniversary of Mexico’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Want to celebrate the holiday but don’t know where to start? Visit one of TechTown Detroit’s clients or alumni located in Southwest Detroit!
In honor of National Small Business week, we’re highlighting TechTown Detroit’s own Small Business Services.
Bella Fernandez, tech-based programs intern at TechTown Detroit, recently interviewed Lindsey Hillesheim, a participant in the Catalyst Angel Program. Hillesheim shared her investing journey and the importance of angel investing.…
In honor of Arab American Heritage Month, we are highlighting TechTown Retail Boot Camp alum Jeehan Nasir and her hijab brand Modestia Collection.
The scope of work for TechTown Detroit’s 313 STRONG program encompasses several areas that small business strategists work with to assist entrepreneurs: marketing, management and finance. TechTown’s Bicultural Business Strategist…
Seven entrepreneurs went head to head at TechTown’s Start Studio MVP Demo Day for the People’s Choice award. After counting all the votes, MySpiro won the People’s Choice Award and $1500 for their tech-based business with the second runner-up being Trip Slip!
Urban Docz: A doctor at your fingertips Dr. Ali Bazzi and Robin Wright King, founders of Urban Docz Telehealth has seen rapid adoption since 2020, surprising healthcare providers and patients…
On January 21, founders and developers of TechTown Detroit’s Start Studio MVP program gathered onsite at TechTown Detroit for a Product Development Day. For eight hours, participants collaborated closely with…
Still need to shop for Valentine’s Day? TechTown has you covered! Browse through a wide selection of gift options from our clients and alumni. Many of the small businesses are holding events and promotions for the holiday!
TechTown’s Entrepreneurial Education team had the chance to connect with Brittni to discuss her experience and learn about her journey to becoming an entrepreneur. She provides excellent advice for aspiring entrepreneurs through the Ask an Expert program!
Catalyst Angel Program participant Keith Jennings was recently interviewed by Nicholas Slappey, program coordinator at TechTown Detroit. Keith shared his journey to angel investing and the importance of supporting Black-owned small…
Max Sneyd is a long-time TechTown Professional Services Network and Ask an Expert program member. Since 2017, Mr. Sneyd has provided aspiring and existing entrepreneurs with thoughtful guidance and support through our free sessions. He is one of three experts offering in-person Ask an Expert sessions at TechTown Detroit!
The Fall 2022 Start Studio Discovery Showcase streamed virtually in December and featured pitch presentations from ten tech-based businesses.
Amanda Sancen is a visual merchandising and retail expert with TechTown Detroit’s Ask an Expert program and Professional Services Network.
When it comes to food photography I always say, “we eat with our eyes first.” You could have the most fantastic recipe, but the average consumer will scroll past it…
What are tamales? In Detroit, there is no shortage of tamales. Tamales are a traditional pre-Hispanic dish rich in texture, full of flavor and a celebration of cultural diversity. Tamales…
Small Business Saturday is a day to not just make a purchase at a small business, but a day to celebrate all they represent to us. They may be a…
On November 10, TechTown Detroit celebrated the hustle and hard work of 13 Retail Boot Camp graduates during our 13th cohort showcase.
There is no doubt that social media is a strategic art form. For businesses, knowing the ins and outs of a digital platform can grow your audience and generate revenue.…
For small businesses, the holiday rush can bring on a new set of challenges. The rise in traffic can be daunting, and it is vital to have the preparation…
Valaise Smith is one of the newest additions to TechTown Detroit’s Ask an Expert program and Professional Services Network. The Ask an Expert Program offers entrepreneurs one-on-one guidance from industry experts. The appointments are free, 25-minute consultations to help you with growing your business. Our experts have a range of skills and specialties that they are excited to share with you!
For small businesses, exporting can elevate sales as well as provide many other benefits. With 95% of consumers living outside of the United States, global sales make up for most of the consumer base.
Brittni joined TechTown Detroit’s Catalyst Angel Program in the spring of 2022. She believes programs like the Catalyst Angel Program truly help investors learn how to be knowledgeable and have due diligence with their companies.
Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month takes place Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 every year and is a month-long celebration of the culture, history and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx people. Southwest Detroit,…
TechTown will gain $3.5 million over the next three to four years to run a software accelerator, pilot technologies in neighborhoods around Detroit, and coordinate the efforts of the Mobility Accelerator Innovation Network (MAIN).
TechTown was recently named to Crain’s Detroit Business’ 2022 Cool Places to Work list! While our company tagline is “We Mean Business” based on the work that we do supporting…
Dash Group is in the logistics business which is very male-dominated so we are keenly aware of some biases that may exist towards those who are not in the “core group”. Starting with our hiring practices, we intentionally position the jobs we hire for with the full metrics of what it takes to succeed
Ser estafado es una amenaza real para cada individuo y cada negocio pequeño.
27th Letter Book’s experience in becoming a victim of cybersecurity and lessons we can all learn to safeguard ourselves.
By: Vicki Sitron, Associate Gift Officer A partnership in the making The relationship between Ally Financial and TechTown Detroit has been in the making for more than two years. Picture…
The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest powered by TechTown celebrated the 2022 competition season at the Hatch Off on Thursday, July 21. The community gathered at the WSU Industry Innovation Center…
Detroit entrepreneurs have utilized TechTown Detroit to sustain their businesses and educate them with long-term strategies to help them be successful. Learn from three alumni on how TechTown supported their journey to open their brick-and-mortar business during the COVID-19 pandemic.
June is Pride Month, a time for the world to celebrate the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer) community, culture and activism. It’s also a great time to support LGBTQ-owned…
Detroit entrepreneurs have utilized TechTown Detroit to sustain their businesses and educate them with long-term strategies to help them be successful. Learn from three alumni on how TechTown supported their journey to open their brick-and-mortar business during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Spring 2022 Start Studio Discovery Showcase streamed virtually on Wednesday, April 27. The showcase included pitch presentations from six innovative, tech-based businesses spanning a range of different business types.
The hottest new Detroit businesses and those in the next wave of openings have used TechTown Detroit to propel their businesses forward. Learn from three alumni how TechTown is supporting…
What does TechTown offer? During our free drop-in day, amenities include fiber public wi-fi, free Ashe coffee and assorted tea, free parking, private phone booths and a kitchenette to store your packed lunch. Didn’t bring a lunch? We got you! Our front desk Community Ambassadors can direct you to an array of lunch alternatives within walking distance.
By: Lindsay Robillard, Fund Development Officer Last year, we asked Detroit’s community of business boosters to come together and chip in to create a future where anyone…
Angel investors are people who risk their own financial capital to invest in early-stage businesses–typically businesses that are unable to secure other types of financing. They often provide advice and support to the companies they invest in.
We are saddened to report that our friend and colleague on the Collaborative Workspace/Facilities team, James Merriwether Jr., passed away last Friday.
Hosted by the Small Business Association (SBA), National Small Business Week is a celebration that recognizes and honors the contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Dr. Cleamon Morer and Samer Alfahad of American Advantage Home Healthcare And the winner is… American Advantage Home Healthcare! The votes are in, and the inaugural Start Studio MVP People’s…
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we want to highlight a female entrepreneur in the Southwest Detroit community, Laly Piña, who has organized an Expo Quinceañera for several years.
By Mayte Penman, Bicultural Business Strategist, and Carrie Vestrand, Retail Strategist Women’s History Month is celebrated in March every year. We take this opportunity to acknowledge the successes and challenges…
TechTown received another EIR by the name of Mack Hendricks. Mack was born in Detroit but raised in Southfield MI with a passion to make change. He obtained a Bachelor and Masters degree in Computer Science from Oakland University. After college, he worked for large Silicon Valley-based companies for most of his 20-year
Retail Boot Camp is an intensive 12-week program that gets the serious entrepreneur ready for opening a brick-and-mortar business in Detroit, Hamtramck or Highland Park
TechTown received another EIR by the name of Mack Hendricks. Mack was born in Detroit but raised in Southfield MI with a passion to make change. He obtained a Bachelor and Masters degree in Computer Science from Oakland University. After college, he worked for large Silicon Valley-based companies for most of his 20-year
Jamesha Lucas, native of St. Louis, MO came to Detroit by way of Atlanta, GA has recently jointed TechTown as our Marketing & E-Commerce strategist. She loves topics related to sales and all things small business related.
After months of diligent work and preparation for the pitch competition, TechTown Detroit is pleased to share the winners of the Fall 2021 Start Studio Showcase.
Our retail strategist Christina Devlin writes about the reason for TechTown’s Marketplace . A directory of local things to do, eat and shop.
Our retail strategist Carrie Vestrand offers ideas and resources for small business packaging in this blog.
As part of the Small Business Mural Project, two TechTown 313 STRONG (formerly SWOT City) clients, Taqueria Nuestra Familia and Mangonadas del Barrio each received new murals which are now available to view.
Last month, we held our Encouragement Experience event at Woodward | Warren Park on Wayne State University’s campus.
Why coworking still matters by TechTown Membership Supervisor, Erica Overstreet.
Hispanic/Latinx Owned Businesses in Detroit to Support During Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month.
TechTown Detroit announced yesterday at Toast of the Town the two inaugural recipients of its Startup Fund, launched in April of 2021
Jaunice Kellar was born and raised in Detroit with an interest in supporting communities. She recently joined TechTown in August of 2021
As you take a drive on East Jefferson Ave., you can actually plan a beautiful destination excursion that would include dining, shopping, or exercising at places that have been supported by TechTown Detroit.
Meet Dawn Batts, Capital Strategist at TechTown Detroit.
Why is it important to support local businesses and service providers?
Five standouts each won a $5,000 Kickstart Award, and one People’s Choice Award was chosen during the live event to receive $1,000.
Meet Carrie Vestrand, a Retail Strategist for TechTown Detroit.
TechTown’s Small Business Services Director, Amanda Saab writes this quintessential guide to showing the dads and those who take on the role as dads the appreciation they deserve.
Dr. Marlo Rencher is an entrepreneur, anthropologist and educator with over two decades of experience in startup and small business development. She has founded or co-founded three tech startups and…
Atomic Object, a Michigan-based software development and design firm with offices in Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor and Chicago, today announced it has committed $5,000 to TechTown Detroit’s new Startup Fund…
Happy Mother’s Day! Treat mom today or any day of the week to well deserved treats from some of our favorite Detroit-based businesses. Ink Courage Inkcourage Encouraging stickers and tees…
Meet Christina Devlin, a retail strategist on TechTown’s Small Business Services team. Christina has been with TechTown Detroit since January of 2019 and resides in Dearborn. Prior to joining…
313 STRONG is a customized support program for brick-and-mortar small businesses in Detroit, Highland Park and Hamtramck neighborhoods. Our staff of passionate, skilled professionals provide one-on-one assistance to stabilize, adapt and…
Detroit Means Business is a coalition of over 60 private, public, and philanthropic partners dedicated to meet the needs of Detroit’s small businesses. Check out this blog on Invest Detroit’s…
Preparation. Knowledge. Support. Resources. In short, you don’t know what you don’t know. You will undoubtedly make mistakes; but Retail Boot Camp can help you eliminate many.
313 STRONG is a customized support program for brick-and-mortar small businesses in Detroit, Highland Park and Hamtramck neighborhoods. Our staff of passionate, skilled professionals provide one-on-one assistance to stabilize, adapt and…
Black entrepreneurs are an integral part of the retail scene in the city of Detroit. The Avenue of Fashion, stretching from 7 Mile to 8 Mile on Livernois, is said…
10 amazing local vendors making gifts for all budgets for you or loved ones this Valentine’s Day. Online shopping and delivery available.
For Black History Month, TechTown is celebrating the accomplishments of founders who paved the way for Detroit’s entrepreneurial community, as well as those who are leading us into the future.
313 STRONG is a customized support program for brick-and-mortar small businesses in Detroit, Highland Park and Hamtramck neighborhoods. Our staff of passionate, skilled professionals provide one-on-one assistance to stabilize, adapt and…
TechTown and the Rocket Community Fund have partnered to shine the spotlight on business owners and ecosystem service providers who responded quickly to the COVID-19 pandemic. As we count down to…
After 10 months and counting, it might be time to evaluate your everyday casual look. The holidays are here, after all, and it’s a great time to examine and reinvest…
TechTown and the Rocket Community Fund have partnered to shine the spotlight on business owners and ecosystem service providers who responded quickly to the COVID-19 pandemic. As we count down to…
We are so lucky to live in a city with an abundance of creative, independent small businesses who not only offer extraordinary options for your gift-giving needs, but also provide gifts that will impact the world around us in a positive way.
Whether you are looking for the perfect gift or just need a little pick-me-up for yourself, these local businesses have what you need. Many of them make or sell products you can’t get anywhere else, and you get the extra feel-good boost of supporting local businesses this holiday season!
As we prepare to enter the peak of the holiday season, let’s take a breath to reflect on some amazing accomplishments of 2020 and spark a little joy to fuel the finish of the year.
Trying to find the perfect gift but don’t know where to start? Want something you can feel good about gifting and that you know will be appreciated? You can’t go wrong with food!
Detroit and the surrounding areas have no shortage of delicious food and drink options; here is a list of some businesses that would be happy to cook your next meal.
TechTown and the Rocket Community Fund have partnered to shine the spotlight on business owners and ecosystem service providers who responded quickly to the COVID-19 pandemic. As we count down to…
Consider this list of local small businesses that can help elevate your look and style to the next level!
We sat down with Lesa Walker, one of the collaborators of our Limited Edition Store, to learn more about her custom creation. Purchase your own TechTown Signature Chocolate and Snack Basket while supplies last, and view other custom collaborations with clients and alumni at The Limited Edition Store.
TechTown and the Rocket Community Fund have partnered to shine the spotlight on business owners and ecosystem service providers who responded quickly to the COVID-19 pandemic. As we count down to…
TechTown and the Rocket Community Fund have partnered to shine the spotlight on business owners and ecosystem service providers who responded quickly to the COVID-19 pandemic. As we count down to…
TechTown and the Rocket Community Fund have partnered to shine the spotlight on business owners and ecosystem service providers who responded quickly to the COVID-19 pandemic. As we count down…
Listen in on Launch Detroit’s Friday Fireside Chat Founder Series featuring the 2020 Cohort. Learn about the experiences of these 10 business owners from eight different tech companies as they learned and grew throughout the accelerator.
20 Latinx/Hispanic Owned Businesses in Detroit to Support During Hispanic Heritage Month.
Program coordinator Myka Burley provides her perspective on how TechTown’s Incubator is changing the way we view programs for startups. With the help of TechTown alum Myles Morgan of Mind Blown Live Coaching, the Incubator program is encouraging its participants to take a step back and reflect introspectively.
Here are a few tips to consider to maximize appointment times for both your customers and your day-to-day operations.
Having a strategic plan that considers everything from personal protective equipment (PPE) and enhanced visual merchandising, to incorporating new policies and safety measures for your staff and customers will make reopening your brick-and-mortar shop less stressful and allow a feeling of empowerment because…YOU GOT THIS!
Small businesses are among the hardest-hit by the COVID crisis. Some businesses have had to reduce hours, others to close doors completely, with no sure answer to how long this will last or what change will come next. Communicating with your customers and maximizing sales opportunities has never been more important.
In these unprecedented times there is no time like the present to utilize this free Facebook tool to connect to your followers and even gain new ones. When used consistently and effectively, it could be the missing link you needed to not only strengthen your service offerings but connect to your audience and let them know you are here and ready to serve them now and into the future.
In this ever-changing world of retail, to the business owner it seems every time you turn around there’s ‘one more thing’ to do or pay attention to. We get it. We know how many hats a small business owner wears and that’s why we at TechTown Detroit’s Retail Services try and lighten that load where and when we can.
Dr. Marlo Rencher shares her experience taking a Venture Finance University course. Find out what she means by “dilution” in this second out of a three part series.
Dr. Marlo Rencher shares her experience taking a Venture Finance University course. Find out what she means by “scale” in this second out of a three part series.
Dr. Marlo Rencher, #TechTown’s director of technology-based programs, brings you installment one of a three-part series from her experience taking the venture finance course at Venture University. Find out about Marlo’s “ah-ha moment” in this vlog.
AirRands is a communication platform that allows users to build their brands by taking the confusion out of app building. We talked with AirRands Founder Michael Holloway on how his company is changing the landscape for the new entrepreneur.
In this month’s blog, SWOT City Director, Amy Rencher writes about gratitude, the results of the Inner City Capital Connections and how we care for your data.
Gallagher Law provides a variety of legal services across Michigan for corporate and individual clients. Attorney, Sean Gallagher, explains how being a coworker member enables his company to be connected to the community it serves.
We all love progress, but no one enjoys seeing the orange barrels come out during Michigan’s road construction season. Additionally, it takes on a completely different meaning if they appear outside the front door of your small business. For business owners on Livernois, Grand River and Bagley, this has been their reality all summer. Diggers, cement trucks, backhoes and semi-trucks zoom up and down the road, park in front of their businesses and rip up their sidewalks, making it even more difficult than normal to execute a marketing strategy.
Raxplay is creating a new way for music listeners everywhere to experience music. Our TechTown staff had an opportunity to sit down with founder Isaac Lymon to discuss how they started and what they are doing to turn music albums into mixed reality experiences.
We all love progress, but no one enjoys seeing the orange barrels come out during Michigan’s road construction season. Additionally, it takes on a completely different meaning if they appear outside the front door of your small business. For business owners on Livernois, Grand River and Bagley, this has been their reality all summer. Diggers, cement trucks, backhoes and semi-trucks zoom up and down the road, park in front of their businesses and rip up their sidewalks, making it even more difficult than normal to execute a marketing strategy.
Meet Thanh Tran. He is the founder of the Accelerate4Kids Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing computer science education to children in grades K-8.
Detour Detroit brings community-focused journalism to the forefront for Detroit residents. With over 4,000 readers, Detour Detroit is dedicated to helping Detroiters understand their city and each other. Find out why they choose TechTown as their coworking home.
Good design is good business. One could also say, good business is good design. Every touchpoint a customer has with a business — from the visual display on a website and store fixture to the way phones are answered and customer service issues are resolved — should be designed to attract revenue and invite loyalty. One touchpoint that many businesses use to engage with customers are pop-up events.
SWOT City alum All Saints Literacy Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit located in southwest Detroit that is committed to helping adults reach their educational, social and career goals by improving their literacy skills right in the heart of MexicanTown. The center is a welcoming place for learners to improve their reading, writing, math and English skills. The program serves adult learners ages 18 and older and welcomes all levels whether the person is a beginner, intermediate or advanced learner.
Meet Brigid Beaubien, the founder of Urbanum, located in Detroit’s New Center area. Check out Brigid’s story and how TechTown’s Retail Boot Camp program helped Brigid take the leap to step out on her own.
Dawn Sanford always dreamt of opening her own salon. After a career spanning over 30 years, Dawn’s wish has finally come true with the grand opening of Shears & Shaves on Detroit’s Avenue of Fashion.
Shears & Shaves offers a full spectrum of luxury grooming and spa services for men and women, including haircuts and styling, coloring, beard and mustache shaves and trims, nail care, skincare, fusion massage and aromatherapy, as well as shoe shining.
Myles Morgan is the founder of Mind Blown Life Coaching, a company dedicated to empowering individuals by helping them identify and remove blocks to their happiness, performance and relationships. From DTX Launch Detroit graduate to coworking member, learn more about Myles’ journey at TechTown.
TechTown’s SWOT City team is a customized support program for brick-and-mortar small businesses in Detroit neighborhoods. As part of this support, SWOT City team members (Portfolio Managers) connect small businesses to a rich network of subject matter experts in support of their coaching efforts. This group of professionals cares about strengthening Detroit through a unique approach to commercial corridor revitalization, job creation and economic development.There are many important aspects to running a small business. In today’s competitive omnichannel sales environment, a website that connects you to customers, represents your brand, provides sales opportunities and enhances your online presence is vital.On July 3, TechTown partnered again with Rebrand Cities, a global civic design partnership with Wordpress.com, and Venture for America Fellows (VFA) to host a hackathon style event, in which 30 Detroit small businesses were assisted in developing their first websites. Two hundred VFA Fellows created new websites for businesses, led workshops and provided one-on-one sessions to help educate business owners on brand building, domain research and design.Six SWOT City businesses (including a Retail Boot Camp graduate) worked in partnership with VFA Fellows to produce new websites:Razzle Dazzle Nail Supply, Chasity Jones | razzledazzlesupply.com Triangulo Dorado, Adrian and Karina Torre | triangulo-dorado.comMangonadas del Barrio, Antonio and Maribel Hernandez | Mangonadas del BarrioLa Rosita, Angelica Saenz | larositarestaurant.comEl Caporal, Antonio and Aracely Canchola | elcaporaldetroit.comQuince Primaveras, Eulalia Piña | 15primaverasllc.com“For so many years I tried to have a website for my business,” said SWOT City client, Eulalia Piña, owner of Quince Primaveras.” This seemed almost impossible since they are very costly. Finally, I have a website where customers from Macomb, Oakland and Wayne County can see the variety and brands of gowns we carry. I am really loving my website.”SWOT City Portfolio Managers at TechTown are here to support, encourage and connect businesses with other professionals who will offer the specific expertise needed to grow your business. TechTown has a broad network of tools and resources, including subject matter experts, workshops and the Accenture Skills to Succeed online learning platform. At TechTown we know, collaborations matter!
With a little planning and purposeful decision-making, you can create a visually stunning pop-up display that can be scaled for a variety of spaces, make a strong statement about your brand and gain the interest of new customers.Pop-ups are a great way to test products, broaden brand exposure and awareness and gain new customers. Unfortunately, many vendors underestimate the value that well-executed visual merchandising can have on gaining new customers and increasing sales. If your display is boring or unattractive, customers will keep walking by, but if you can gain their attention, you have an opportunity to convert them to a customer for life.The effort you put into your pop-up display can have a significant impact on your bottom line. Visual merchandising is an art. It doesn’t need to be complicated, simply make thoughtful and purposeful choices and create a set of tools to convey your brand story to potential customers.TechTown now offers a custom fixture library to vendors at our monthly pop-up, The SHOP, to help entrepreneurs learn and practice these three tips for next-level pop-up merchandising:
For many minority entrepreneurs, it’s difficult to discover the proper support in communities that have not always been inclusive of everyone. Juan Carlos Dueweke-Perez created his marketing agency Featherstone Moments to address the challenges faced by businesses owners of color, women and the LGBTQ community. Find out more about how his company works with entrepreneurs and why he loves coworking at TechTown.
Hailing from Texas, Nikki Neuzil has always had a passion for vintage fashion. After opening and running a successful vintage store in Austin, Nikki and her husband relocated and opened a new store in Southwest Detroit. Flamingo Vintage offers men’s and women’s clothing and accessories from the 1920s through the ’80s as well as furniture and mid-century home decor. Learn more about Nikki’s time in TechTown’s Retail Boot Camp.
Did you know that food allergies have increased 377 percent in the last 10 years? Meet Javier Evelyn, founder of Alerje. Javier and his team are working to save lives around the world by creating products to serve those impacted by food allergies. Learn more about TechTown’s role in Javier’s entrepreneurial journey.
Technology can be daunting, and the use of it to increase awareness for your business can be especially intimidating if you haven’t been exposed to it. Irma Fuentes, owner of ESI Hardware in Southwest Detroit, credits the training provided by a TechTown Professional Services Network (PSN) member as the reason why she’s been able to manage her fear of technology. When ESI Hardware opened in 2003, Mexican-American immigrants Irma and Edgar Fuentes relied on word of mouth to gain more customers for their business. After opening, however, they struggled to keep the store in business amidst many personal tribulations, including the death of Edgar and Irma’s battle with cancer. Irma found that social media would be a powerful tool to increase awareness and gain more clientele. Small businesses can have the best products, prices, location and customer service, but if the surrounding community isn’t aware, they must find additional avenues to gain recognition.
Most people believe that when you apply for a microloan the “one fits all” concept will be the norm. With microlending, this is not true. Microlenders lend up to $50,000 with slightly higher interest rates than bank loans; however, they have a much more flexible underwriting criterion. Are microlenders lending in Detroit? Absolutely. They are providing access to much-needed capital for entrepreneurs throughout the city. Microlenders usually will lend to entrepreneurs if they don’t qualify for traditional small business loans, but what we are seeing in Detroit is that microlenders and traditional lenders are partnering on loan deals with entrepreneurs. Community lenders are filling in the lending gap between microlenders and traditional lenders (i.e. Detroit Development Fund, Invest Detroit and other similar lenders).
“Just learning about TechTown and Retail Boot Camp, to me, was just an eye-opener of just knowing the type of resources that we have available in the city.” Ariya’s Apparel & Accessories, a women’s boutique that opened in April in Grandmont Rosedale Workplace, specializes in modern, modest apparel for women ages 25 and up.
In 2017, a group of doctoral students from Wayne State University’s College of Engineering came together to create a nanosensor designed to detect contaminants in water. The company, Micro Buoy, was born during Erie Hack — a tech-driven international water innovation competition and accelerator program created by the Cleveland Water Alliance, in conjunction with numerous partners, including TechTown Detroit.
Rivers Realty, a family-owned full-service real estate brokerage company, has been a part of Detroit’s small business community for over 40 years. Founder Ron Rivers started his company after seeing a need in the black community for property managers and experts in the real estate industry. Ron’s daughter, Lauren Rivers, joined the business in 2014 as their managing broker. Today, Rivers Realty serves clients throughout Metro Detroit and has become a model for family business in the city.
Paul Riser Jr., the Managing Director of Technology-Based Entrepreneurship at TechTown Detroit, has been named the director of Detroit Urban Solutions. Detroit Urban Solutions is a consortium, founded by Wayne State, TechTown, NextEnergy and numerous other organizations, that will focus primarily on mobility, digital health, civic technologies and smart city technologies. Last May the consortium announced its first major in
“The greatest benefit from attending RBC has to be the ecosystem and all the resources that are available to us to help us open our business,” said Gary Mui, co-owner of Alma Kitchen. Opening soon in Jefferson Chalmers, Alma Kitchen is a fusion restaurant that will feature food blended from the owners’ Mexican and Chinese cultures. Co-owners Gary Mui and Alicia Sanchez named the restaurant Alma because it means “soul” in Spanish. They believe that food is a universal language, and theirs comes straight from the soul, which is why their space will welcome all generations and backgrounds.
Are you looking to launch a tech startup or move your retail business from a pop-up to a permanent space? TechTown’s long-standing Retail Boot Camp and DTX Launch Detroit programs have helped numerous businesses launch and succeed. Among the graduates are tech startups such as Peerstachio and MySwimPro, and retail businesses such as Urbanum and Live Cycle Delight. Apply now to one of the programs below to kickstart your business.
University of Michigan startup Peerstachio is changing the way college students find resources. Peerstachio is an online community connecting undergraduate students or high schoolers preparing to transition to college with…
Kylee Guenther is the CEO of Spectalite, a woman-owned company that manufactures lightweight, sustainable bamboo fiber composite materials suitable for making products such as automotive interiors, houseware, consumer products and…
knoME is a software company dedicated to boosting retention rates of early career professionals by improving communication between managers and employees. Through the DTX Launch Detroit program, they were…
Deelio gets an independent retailer’s customers talking about them on social media, turning their posts into sales. During their time in the DTX Launch Detroit program, the Deelio team learned…
Brix Wine & Charcuterie Boutique is a sophisticated wine bar located in Detroit’s East Jefferson neighborhood. After working in New York in the marketing industry, owner Mikiah Westbrooks returned to…
Ojas Akolkar is the founder of Tribalfare, an online retailer offering handcrafted clothing, accessories and home decor from India. In 2015, Ojas graduated from TechTown’s Retail Boot Camp program,…
Chris Lum is a DTX Launch Detroit 2016 graduate. During his time in the program, Chris gained firsthand insight on what it takes to launch a successful tech- based…
Iyinoluwa Omishope is a DTX Launch Detroit standout, named 2016’s Most Valuable Player. But in many ways, she is also a very typical DTX Launch student. She came to an…
Art in Motion is a ceramic studio and gallery located on Detroit’s famous Avenue of Fashion. After participating in Detroit Economic Growth Corporation’s REVOLVE Detroit program, which matched businesses with…
EnBiologics is the perfect example of a pivot. The three Wayne State University biomedical engineering graduate students who make up the team– Gregory Apers, Sean Carrol and Ramy Habib–began exploring their idea for a medical hydrogel for human burn treatment last summer in the DTX Launch Detroit student accelerator.
Gary Wozniak founded RecoveryPark Farms (RPF) in 2013 to grow specialty produce on vacant Detroit land. Gary was raised in a farming community, and during his early 20s he struggled…
Why did you choose popcorn? I was looking to open a soul food restaurant, and as I was prepping to do that, I went to Chicago for another business, and…
In the summer of 2014, the City of Detroit’s Water and Sewerage Department faced widespread scrutiny after shutting off water to more than 20,000 residential customers unable to pay their…
Aisha Warren believes fashion is her calling. Her business is Posh Fashions, a women’s boutique on East Jefferson. A TechTown SWOT City client, Aisha celebrated the grand opening of Posh…
Like many entrepreneurs, Jason Wolfe-Greer’s startup idea stemmed from personal experience.Training to be an RN while caring for his fiancee’s grandfather in hospice, Wolfe-Greer recognized that stressed and overworked family…
Mandisa Smith of Detroit Fiber Works is a Detroit native artist whose vision has brought an incredible corps of local artists together under one roof. DFW hosts classes, exhibitions, and…
Love. Travels. Imports. is making great strides in the city by connecting Detroiters to amazing, handmade pieces created by fair trade artisans from around the world. Founded by Yvette Jenkins in…
by Ned Staebler It’s been a busy two months since I became CEO of TechTown, succeeding the indomitable Leslie Lynn Smith. And in this time, there is one refrain I…