Regional Economic Vitality
A strong economy is vital to every successful community. We are becoming a destination for many newcomers including entrepreneurs, immigrants, and millennials. The Community Foundation’s focus on attracting new residents, while still engaging long-term residents’
participation in the economic turnaround, is important for the region. Building upon and working with many charitable organizations, the Community Foundation focuses on the opportunities that result in more welcoming and vital communities.
This includes strong cultural institutions, creative and innovative projects, vibrant public spaces, and support systems for all residents. At the same time, the increased use of technology by businesses, communities, and individuals will speed the pace of change within our region. Everything from mobility, education, housing, and public spaces to arts, music, community engagement, and entertainment will see tremendous change.
Hacker Fellows
In three short years, Hacker Fellows has become one of the pillar programs for the startup technology ecosystem in Detroit. This one-year fellowship program for hackers, coders, and startup junkies assists individuals in landing jobs with early-stage tech companies in Michigan, filling the void between Michigan startups and talented developers. With funding from the Community Foundation’s Ann and Carman Adams Fund, the Hacker Fellowship helped 15 tech entrepreneurs develop the technical expertise to pursue a career in technology and computer science.
The fellowship also encourages minority candidates to apply, ultimately increasing the historically underrepresented population in the technology sector. Since inception, 30 fellows who completed the Hacker Fellowship have been successfully hired by Michigan startups.
You can read more on our programs and grants in the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan 2017 Yearbook.