PHOTO: Dennis Archer Jr., Johnnie Turnage co-founder BTS, CEO of Michigan Central Josh Sirefman, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist, Chief Growth and Marketing Officer of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation Hilary Doe
Detroit is no longer just the Motor City. It is on the cusp of redefining its identity as a premier destination for technology and innovation. This transformation was the focal point of the Michigan Chronicle’s Pancakes and Politics Forum III, held on May 23, 2024, at One Campus Martius. This pivotal event brought together some of Michigan’s most influential leaders to discuss how the city can cultivate a dynamic culture centered on cutting-edge technology and innovation. Moderated by the insightful Dennis Archer Jr., the forum showcased Detroit’s ambitious vision and the strategies necessary to realize it.
The panel featured Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist, CEO of Michigan Central Josh Sirefman, Chief Growth and Marketing Officer of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation Hilary Doe, and CEO and Co-Founder of Black Tech Saturdays Johnnie Turnage. Their collective insights illuminated the path forward for Detroit, addressing both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist kicked off the discussion with a powerful message about Michigan’s commitment to supporting Black and women entrepreneurs. “For the first time, we have a $22 million investment in Black-led opportunities to help and scale Black entrepreneurs. We care about Black entrepreneurs, we care about women entrepreneurs, and we have the receipts to prove it,” Gilchrist proclaimed. Reflecting on his own journey, he shared, “In 2005, there was absolutely no opportunity here in Michigan for tech, so I moved to Seattle to pursue a career in software engineering and helped create SharePoint. Today, to all the people that have heard no, Michigan is here to say yes.”
Gilchrist also highlighted the Michigan Venture Capital Fellows Program, designed to diversify investment in the state. “People invest in people who look like them, which is why we’ve started this program. We want everyone to have an opportunity,” he explained. This program underscores Michigan’s strategic efforts to attract and retain top-tier tech talent, ensuring that the state remains competitive in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Josh Sirefman, CEO of Michigan Central, emphasized the importance of creating a fertile ground for tech companies in the region. He detailed how Michigan Central is positioning itself as a hub for innovation, leveraging Detroit’s unique assets to attract businesses and talent. “We are laying the groundwork for a tech ecosystem that not only supports existing companies but also nurtures startups and new ventures,” Sirefman stated. His vision for Michigan Central includes robust infrastructure, strategic partnerships, and a supportive business environment that fosters growth and innovation.
Hilary Doe, Chief Growth and Marketing Officer of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, provided insights into strategic pro-business public policies that can drive economic growth. “Michigan has a goal from now until 2050 to stay on a path to sustainable growth to retain and attract young people, ensuring that we have enough jobs and workers to fill any gaps,” Doe said. She highlighted Michigan’s rich history of innovation and its potential to regain its status as a leading economic powerhouse. “Michigan once had five out of ten of the wealthiest communities in the world, including Detroit. Today, we are on a path to be at or above the median income level nationally again. We’ve always been this innovative place. We have every right to be at the vanguard of that.”
Johnnie Turnage, CEO and Co-Founder of Black Tech Saturdays, shared the inspiring story behind the grassroots initiative that is transforming Detroit’s tech landscape. “Black Tech Saturdays started with me and Daren Riley having a conversation on a Saturday about what we want out of our tech dreams. After a while, we thought, other people should be in this room,” Turnage recounted. “Ever since April 29, 2023, BTS has taken off. It works, and they want us everywhere now.” Turnage and his wife, Alexa, were ready to move to Houston due to the lack of opportunities for Blacks in tech. However, BTS has changed that narrative by providing opportunities for Black people in tech and entrepreneurship right here in Detroit.
The panelists also addressed the critical issue of talent retention, with a focus on creating environments where tech professionals can thrive. “Folks want great opportunities, great spaces, and beautiful communities,” Doe remarked. She emphasized the importance of Michigan’s ambitious campaign to retain and attract talent. “I hope we’re bragging a little bit more about Michigan. We are dependent on folks to tell the world it’s important to retain and attract talent. We have the most ambitious campaign when it comes to retention and growth and quite frankly, Michigan should be the innovation hub of the Midwest.”
The discussion was not only informative but also a call to action. Michigan is not just rising; it is thriving, and Detroit is leading the way. Hiram E. Jackson, publisher of the Michigan Chronicle and CEO of Real Times Media, underscores through each forum, that it is in conversations like this that sets Michigan Chronicle Pancakes and Politics apart from any other forum and panel discussions. These dialogues are critical, and the time is not just now, but right now. This dynamic and game-changing dialogue changes the city of Detroit and this state for the better, bringing light to the real issues and concerns in a way like no other and everyone notices.
For those unable to attend in person, the Michigan Chronicle, in collaboration with media partner WDIV, ensured that the conversation reached a wider audience through a live broadcast. This partnership allowed viewers across Detroit and beyond to witness the pivotal dialogue shaping the future of tech and innovation in the region. The live broadcast, accessible at michiganchronicle.com/pancakesandpolitics, provided an opportunity for a broader audience to engage with the insights and strategies discussed by the panelists.
The event concluded with a sense of optimism and urgency. Detroit is poised to become a vessel of tech innovation, and the leaders at Pancakes and Politics Forum III are at the forefront of this transformation. As Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist aptly put it, “Michigan is here to say yes.” This sentiment echoed throughout the forum, inspiring attendees and viewers alike to contribute to Detroit’s tech renaissance.
Looking ahead, the conversation continues at the next Pancakes and Politics Forum on Tuesday, June 18. This upcoming forum promises to build on the momentum generated at Forum III, delving deeper into the strategies and initiatives that will propel Detroit forward. As the city continues to evolve, these dialogues remain crucial in shaping a future where Detroit stands as a leader in technology and innovation.
In summary, the Michigan Chronicle’s Pancakes and Politics Forum III was more than just an event; it was a testament to Detroit’s potential and a blueprint for its future. The insights shared by the panelists provided a clear roadmap for transforming Detroit into a thriving tech hub. With continued dialogue, strategic investments, and a commitment to inclusivity, Detroit is on the cusp of a technological renaissance that will redefine its identity and set a new standard for innovation in the Midwest.
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