“The Visioning 2040 projects are exactly what’s needed to maintain Sterling Heights’ status as a destination for families and businesses seeking a great quality of life,” says City Manager Mark Vanderpool.
“TechTown’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship doesn’t end with the Hatch Off; incubating Detroit’s small businesses is a year-round endeavor supported by our entrepreneurial and technical assistance programs that provide ongoing support to our winning alumni and top finalists," says Christianne Malone, assistant vice president for economic development at Wayne State University and TechTown Detroit’s chief program officer.
What started as a love for hexagons while studying architecture led Jessica Brady to bees. Now the founder of Mother Hive, an Oak Park small business that specializes in baked goods, Brady's uses honey from her backyard apiary to sweeten her recipes.
“Part of what makes Detroit’s small business landscape so incredibly special is the community’s shared vision for vibrant neighborhoods and unwavering dedication to see local businesses thrive,” says Christianne Malone, assistant vice president for economic development at Wayne State University and chief program officer of TechTown Detroit.
!["[This funding] allows us to expand the programming we offer to residents in Virginia Park and across Detroit," says George Adams Jr., president and founder of 360 Detroit, one of the nonprofits included in the Thriving Neighborhoods Fund cohort.](https://d4lphzd65wfvr.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/17153240/georgeadams2_1.jpg)
“This additional investment signifies our continued deep commitment to uplifting and doing our part to strengthen Detroit’s nonprofit ecosystem,” says Dr. Chanel Hampton, CEO, Strategic Community Partners. “Ultimately, our investment and engagement are about our belief in our neighborhoods and our people. Our Thriving Neighborhoods Fund is about great people doing great work each day to ensure our neighborhoods are thriving.”
Oak Park is finishing a library redesign after community input, and will hold a public open day on April 7.
“Balduck is truly an amazing park and a beloved east side treasure,” says Detroit Chief Operating Officer Brad Dick.
Sweet Potato Sensations is the living legacy of a family business based in Old Redford. Through longtime community support, and a continuous network of small business resources including BUILD Institute, the multi-generational business is going on 37 years.
The winter blues are real. We find five fun indoor spots to connect in Macomb County to beat the cold Michigan months.
“The Neighborhood Beautification Program continues to play an integral role in the City’s efforts to turn blight into beauty,” says Tamra Fountaine Hardy, director of HRD’s Neighborhood Services Division.
Our Partners
Common Ground Is Brewing
Support local stories and receive our signature roast straight to your door when you join at the Standard level (or above).
Drink Better, Read Local
