TechTown Detroit Launches Detroit Elevate Incubator Supporting Second-Stage Businesses in Metro Detroit
Funding and technical assistance initiative launched with $950,000 investment from the Gilbert Family Foundation
TechTown Detroit, Wayne State University's entrepreneurship hub, is proud to announce the launch of Detroit Elevate, a new program designed to strengthen and support second-stage businesses across Detroit, Hamtramck, and Highland Park. This initiative, operated with assistance from Black Leaders Detroit and QT Business Solutions, was funded by a $950,000 investment from the Gilbert Family Foundation, as part of their comprehensive $4.45 million commitment to Detroit's economic development. Applications are now open for the inaugural cohort, at detroitelevate.org
"Through Detroit Elevate, we're making sure second-stage businesses in Detroit, Hamtramck, and Highland Park have the resources, capital, and technical support they need to grow and thrive," said Christianne Malone, chief program officer at TechTown and assistant vice president in Wayne State University's Division of Entrepreneurship and Economic Development. "This is about strengthening neighborhoods, creating jobs, and building long-term prosperity across our communities by pouring into these businesses."
The program, which represents TechTown's continued commitment to building an inclusive economy that works for all metro Detroit entrepreneurs, combines three critical elements for business success:
- Funding - Direct capital investment to fuel growth.
- Technical Assistance - Expert guidance in operations, marketing, and finance.
- Community-Driven Engagement - Strategies to drive customer traffic and increase visibility.
"Detroit's small businesses are the backbone of our city. They provide jobs to Detroit's residents and are a source of products and services the neighborhoods rely on," said Darnell Adams, vice president of Detroit Community Initiatives at the Gilbert Family Foundation. "These grants will help Detroiters today, while also laying the foundation for long-term growth, stability, and lasting wealth in our communities."
Applications are now open for entrepreneurs who have been in business for at least three years, also known as second-stage businesses. They must be located in Detroit, Hamtramck, or Highland Park to participate in the inaugural Detroit Elevate cohort. Interested entrepreneurs have until Sunday, September 21, at 11:59 P.M. to submit their applications.
For more information about Detroit Elevate, and to apply, visit detroitelevate.org.
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About TechTown Detroit
TechTown -Wayne State's entrepreneurship hub – has been at the forefront of empowering entrepreneurs and creating sustainable economic impact in Detroit and beyond. A state-designated SmartZone and Small Business Support Hub, TechTown fuels equitable economic development by supporting businesses across various industries – from tech-based ideas to retail and restaurant establishments.
TechTown offers robust programming, co-working and event space, and tailored resources for early-stage founders and scalable small businesses, while also serving as a convening location. Over the past two decades, it has supported more than 7,000 businesses that have raised over $420 million in capital and created more than 2,300 jobs. Serving Detroit, Hamtramck, Highland Park, and greater Wayne County, TechTown is a cornerstone of Wayne State's commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic opportunity. Visit techtowndetroit.org.
