Detroit was a tech hub before tech hubs were “cool”

Unicorns are no accident. They are melded in places with technology and talent. They require a flood of venture capital, and the space to ideate and take risks in a community that lives to innovate. We were tech innovators before hoodies were chic and it shows. Digital tech companies are flocking to the Detroit Region to launch and scale operations in our vibrant and affordable startup ecosystem.

Digital Technology Regional Facts

97,000

Tech Workers in Detroit Region

in 2024

97,000

Software Developers & Programmers in the Detroit Region

2024

$1.1 Billion

Venture Capital Investments in Michigan

Increased 40% from 2020-2024

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7,500

Annual Tech Degrees and Certificates Awarded

 

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#3

Tech Talent Quality vs Cost

Out of the Top National Tech Markets (2024)

#1

Manufacturing Tech Talent

Out of the Top Tech Markets (2024)

Wins & Testimonials

The Detroit Region: The Tech Talent to Launch & Scale Your Next Tech Operation

Southeast Michigan’s tech talent builds, leads, and innovates. Supported by nationally recognized research universities, our talent serves both global automotive giants and scrappy start-ups–and everyone in between. Hear from tech experts about Detroit’s big differentiator.

Detroit Should Be Top of Mind for Founders

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Michigan has Four Unicorn Companies: One of Only Ten States with More than One

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Startup Genome

Detroit ranks the top global location for emerging startup ecosystems

 

EcoG

“The ecosystem in Detroit is very good for growing companies, especially being close to the auto industry and being in a location that is looking for new opportunities. When we were in the Techstars incubator program, we were invited to New York and Detroit, and we chose Detroit — which was the right choice, it brought us immediately to a vivid ecosystem between the auto industry, energy industry, and a general sense of business and entrepreneurship.”

– Johannes Hund, EcoG Founder

Fast Facts

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Growing Industry

Ann Arbor and Detroit Rank As Two of the Nation’s Top Echelon Locations for the AI Economy – Brookings Metro, 2025

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Workforce

The Detroit Region has one of the largest U.S. hubs for technology talent with more than 97,000 workers and nearly 40,000 software developers / programmers in 2024.

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Robust Ecosystem

Detroit has a robust technology ecosystem with more than 190 incubators, accelerators, training, and related partners and 27 data centers.

Make Detroit Your Home

For digital tech companies, the Detroit Regional Partnership offers strategic advantages that accelerate success. By connecting you with specialized talent, robust infrastructure, and financial incentives, we simplify the site selection process while providing valuable data. Through a single point of contact, you gain direct access to local partners and resources, ensuring your expanding business thrives in Detroit’s dynamic market. The region’s flourishing entrepreneurial ecosystem fosters innovation and collaboration, making it an ideal hub for software development, AI, and emerging technologies. By choosing Detroit, you position your company for lasting growth, leveraging the city’s spirit of reinvention and unmatched digital transformation.

Our Location Connects You with Opportunity. Explore The Detroit Region for Yourself.

Contact Our Expert

Alan Weber

Alan Weber

Managing VP, Business Development