Detroit has always been a city of builders. From the automotive industry that defined the 20th century to the tech renaissance taking shape today, the spirit of innovation runs deep in our city's DNA. As developers, designers, and creators, we're part of something bigger than just writing code—we're building the future of Detroit.
When I first moved to Detroit in 2018, I was struck by the raw potential I saw everywhere. Abandoned buildings that could become co-working spaces. Empty lots that could become community gardens. And most importantly, people with incredible talent and drive who just needed the right opportunities.
"Detroit isn't just a place to build software—it's a place to build community. Every line of code we write has the potential to create real change in people's lives."
One of the most exciting developments in Detroit's tech scene has been the emergence of strong local networks. From meetups at local coffee shops to hackathons in repurposed warehouses, developers are coming together to share knowledge and build amazing things.
Here's what makes Detroit's developer community special:
As we continue to grow Detroit's tech ecosystem, it's important to remember that we're not just building companies—we're building a city. Every startup that succeeds, every developer who finds their dream job, every student who learns to code contributes to Detroit's renaissance.
The challenges we face are real, but so is our determination. We're not trying to be Silicon Valley—we're building something uniquely Detroit. Something that honors our city's industrial heritage while embracing the digital future.
If you're a developer, designer, or anyone interested in tech, Detroit needs you. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, there's a place for you in our community.
Come to our meetups. Contribute to open source projects. Mentor someone who's just learning to code. Build something that makes Detroit better.
Together, we're not just writing code—we're writing the future of our city.
Get notified when I publish new posts about building meaningful tech for real communities.
At this month’s Vibe Coding meetup, we explored how AI tools like Cursor can speed up projects—or derail them without clear direction. I shared the Renaissance City LaunchPad, a cultural shift and support ecosystem empowering community organizers to build, own, and sustain their own technology.
At our latest VibeCoding session, developers are bringing ideas to life with a shared mission: build tools that empower community.
At Black Tech Saturdays on July 22nd, 30 founders took the stage to share bold, community-rooted ideas—from wearable tech to solar-powered EV solutions. The event showcased Detroit’s grassroots innovation in action, with five standout winners leading the charge toward a more equitable future.