“We are excited to see how vendors and partners can leverage AI and other innovative technologies to contribute to the city's delivery of services while maintaining our standard for operational excellence,” says Sandra Yu Stahl, Detroit's Chief Procurement Officer.
“These 10 Fellows represent a bright future as we work together to support startups, tackle mobility challenges, and provide transportation solutions for Michiganders across the state,” says Justine Johnson, Chief Mobility Officer for the State of Michigan.
"We're excited to take our years of experience testing autonomous robotic solutions and focus on picking up end-of-life materials. And Detroit is a fantastic place to deploy these civic infrastructure tests as the city is focused both on future technology opportunities and the needs of communities," says Orange Sparkle Ball's Ashley Touchton.
"This partnership exemplifies our commitment to leveraging technology and collaboration to address environmental challenges," says Tim Slusser, Chief of the Office of Mobility Innovation at the City of Detroit. "By harnessing the power of BeBot, we are taking proactive steps to combat litter pollution and preserve the beauty of Belle Isle for generations to come."
Artificial Intelligence offers enormous opportunities across industries, but universities in Michigan are aware of the need to implement the technology responsibly and are leading the charge on how to do so.
“Innovative thinking coming out of Detroit's eastside neighborhoods is nothing new,” says Dan Gilmartin, CEO and Executive Director of the Michigan Municipal League.
“Equitable access to high-speed internet and digital literacy tools can mean the difference between success and failure for our residents, whether they’re working on schoolwork, finding a job, or navigating workforce training tools,” says Deputy Mayor Todd Bettison.
“In Michigan, our vision for mobility extends beyond the traditional automobile. By innovating our mobility ecosystems, we're not only enhancing the quality of life for our residents but also providing robust support to diverse industries,” says Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist.
"We know the startup journey is challenging and that there are distinct hurdles along the way, especially for founders from underrepresented communities," says Joshua Sirefman, CEO of Michigan Central. "This program is a key step in removing some of those barriers to help innovation thrive."
“As Detroit continues to cement itself as the premier technology hub, it’s critical to highlight and lift up our Black talent and entrepreneurs who have made Detroit into the destination it is,” says James Feagin, founder of Venture 313.
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