The 2026 cohort reflects the diversity and entrepreneurial energy of Detroit’s small-business community with industries ranging from construction, technology and professional services to food, retail, beauty and the creative arts.

The businesses selected for the 2026 Detroit Elevate cohort are:

“Detroit’s entrepreneurs are building businesses that create jobs, serve neighborhoods and contribute to the city’s economic growth,” said Marcus Reliford, Director of Business Support & Engagement, TechTown Detroit. “Through our Detroit Elevate program, we are providing these participants with practical tools, meaningful connections and opportunities to sharpen their business strategies and prepare for their next stage of growth.”

Made possible by a $950,000 investment from Gilbert Family Foundation, Detroit Elevate advances the Foundation’s commitment to economic opportunity for Detroit residents by equipping Detroit entrepreneurs with the resources, mentorship, and networks needed to grow sustainable businesses.

“When entrepreneurs succeed, entire communities benefit,” said Linda Nosegbe, Director of Economic Mobility, Gilbert Family Foundation. “There is a lot of focus on new startups, but it’s important to remember that every growing business has the potential to create jobs, drive innovation and strengthen Detroit’s economy. Detroit Elevate gives critical second-stage entrepreneurs the practical resources, guidance and support they need to grow their businesses, create new opportunities and expand their impact across Detroit.”

A key component of this year’s programming is Pitch Lab, a three-part workshop series designed to help entrepreneurs communicate their business ideas with confidence, clarity and purpose.

During the first session, participants will learn how to structure a compelling business story, create a visually polished slide presentation and deliver a confident pitch. Interactive exercises and examples of successful funding pitches will help participants understand what makes a presentation effective and how to apply those lessons to their own businesses. In session two, participants will refine their messages into concise, memorable elevator pitches while learning how to communicate their purpose and connect authentically with an audience.

Attendees who completed the first two sessions will be invited to participate in the final Pitch Lab, where they will present before a panel of community leaders and receive individualized feedback in a real-world pitching environment.

Through Detroit Elevate, participants will have opportunities to develop their business skills, strengthen their messaging, expand their networks and gain greater visibility within Detroit’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. More information at www.DetroitElevate.org.

About TechTown

Since 2007, TechTown Detroit has helped more than 8,000 companies create and sustain thousands of jobs and raise over $500 million in capital. As Wayne State University’s and Detroit’s entrepreneurship hub, TechTown is a nonprofit that connects early- to growth-stage small businesses and tech founders with programs, education, and resources that open doors. By building an inclusive economy, TechTown is helping Detroit and Southeast Michigan compete and win. Visit techtowndetroit.org.

About the Gilbert Family Foundation

Gilbert Family Foundation is a private nonprofit foundation founded by Jennifer and Dan Gilbert to accelerate a cure for neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and build economic opportunity and equity in the city of Detroit. The Gilbert Family Foundation supports groundbreaking, cutting-edge research in hopes of eradicating NF1, a genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow on nerves anywhere in the body. Additionally, the Foundation supports the economic stability and mobility of residents in Detroit by investing in wealth-building opportunities and breaking down systemic barriers.

Source: Gilbert Family Foundation