Planning for Your Business
2025-11-05 17:30 - 19:30 (America/Detroit) | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Running a small business takes planning, adaptability, and a clear vision for the future. Whether you operate a food, retail, or CPG business, having a solid plan in place can make all the difference when it comes to sustainable growth and long-term success.
This interactive workshop will guide you through the process of setting realistic goals, preparing for busy seasons and holidays, and developing strategies to stay steady during slower months. You’ll gain valuable insights to help you identify what’s working, where to adjust, and how to keep your business moving forward with intention.
With over 100 years of combined experience, our experts will share proven strategies, lessons learned, and practical advice drawn from their own journeys—offering you the tools and inspiration to help your business thrive in 2026 and beyond.

First Thursdays
2025-11-06 17:30 - 19:30
Welcome to First Thursdays: Igniting Entrepreneurial Connections!
Join us for a one-of-a-kind networking event designed to bring together the entrepreneurial community. First Thursdays is more than just a networking event; it’s a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and the spirit of entrepreneurship.
First Thursdays is a gathering where entrepreneurs, startups, and ecosystem partners unite to share ideas, forge connections, and support one another on their entrepreneurial journey. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or starting, First Thursdays offers something for everyone.
What to expect:

Enriching conversations: Engage in meaningful conversations with fellow entrepreneurs, industry experts, and ecosystem partners. Share your experiences, exchange ideas and gain valuable insights that can help propel your business forward.

Valuable insights: Hear from guest speakers, alumni business owners, and industry leaders who will share their insights, tips, and strategies for success. Learn from their successes and failures and discover new ways to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.

Opportunities for collaboration: Discover exciting opportunities for collaboration, partnership, and growth. Whether looking for a co-founder, seeking feedback on your business idea or searching for potential investors, First Thursdays is the perfect place to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for innovation.

Business owner spotlights: Each month, we’ll highlight business owners who have made significant strides in their entrepreneurial journey. Learn from their experiences, celebrate their achievements, and be inspired by their success stories.

Don’t miss out! Join us at First Thursdays and be part of a thriving entrepreneurial community that celebrates innovation, collaboration, and success. Reserve your spot today and take the first step towards igniting meaningful connections and accelerating your entrepreneurial journey!
First Thursdays is made possible with support from the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce.

Get to the Bag: Digital Tools for the Modern Stylist & Barber
2025-11-17 17:30 - 20:00
This program is designed to empower local entrepreneurs with the tools, insights and strategies needed to thrive in an ever-eveolving digital economy.
Join us for an engaging session focused on how beauty and barber professionals are using digital technology and artificial intelligence to grow their businesses, streamline operations, and better serve their clients. Whether you’re new to digital tools or already experimenting with AI-driven solutions, this event is designed to meet you where you are.
Key Takeaways:

A clear overview of AI and how it applies to the beauty and barber industries.
Practical, industry-specific strategies to enhance client engagement, marketing, and business management using digital tools.
Real-world examples from local professionals successfully integrating technology into their daily operations.
Access to curated resources and support networks to continue learning and growing after the event.

Register here!

The SHOP | November 19
2025-11-19 11:00 - 14:00
Experience the best of Detroit’s small business community at The SHOP, TechTown Detroit’s monthly retail pop-up marketplace! Join us in person on the last Wednesday of every month to explore unique products, connect with local entrepreneurs and uncover your next favorite find. Mark your calendar and join us for a vibrant shopping experience celebrating Detroit’s small business community!
The SHOP at TechTown is made possible with support from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and Wells Fargo.

Happy Hour at TechTown
2025-11-20 12:00 - 13:30
Head to TechTown for another one of our amazing Happy Hours! From noon to 1:30 p.m., come to our Fueling Station on the first floor, where we’ll be serving snacks, beer, and nonalcoholic beverages!
You’ve worked hard — take a break with us!

AI With a Clear Vision: Build Your First AI Action Plan
2025-11-25 17:30 - 19:30
Join us for AI With a Clear Vision, a hands-on working session designed to cut through the noise and help you implement AI in your business—starting tomorrow. This isn’t another theory-heavy seminar. It’s a structured, practical workshop where you’ll walk out with a concrete plan, a scheduled first action, and the clarity to move forward with confidence. This workshop is built for action. In two focused hours, you’ll choose one practical AI use case from your actual work, map out a simple assist flow, establish a critical guardrail, define a measurable success metric, and commit to your first implementation step.
Every attendee leaves with a completed Clear Vision Card—a one-page strategic plan that bridges the gap between AI curiosity and real business value. No fluff, no overwhelm, just a clear path forward.
Register here!
