Black-owned businesses have held down the city for decades. When others left, they stayed. This Black History Month, celebrate the legacy and emerging Black-owned businesses that are at the root of Detroit’s growth and strengthening the fabric of our community. 

In honor of Black History Month, TechTown Detroit, Wayne State University’s entrepreneurship hub, is hosting the Black Business Reunion: Uniting the Community for Prosperity. This day-long conference will be held on Thursday, Feb. 22, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Wayne State University Industry Innovation Center (I2C). Registration opens at 8:30 a.m., and continental breakfast and lunch will be provided. Join us as we pay homage to the quintessential reunions for Black families by celebrating Black businesses of the past, present and those to come. 

The Black Business Reunion recognizes the vital role Black businesses play in our communities, celebrates their achievements and fosters collaboration for a brighter future. During this event, we will network and renew our spirits with food, music and art. The day includes two panels: The Elders’ Corner, where owners of some of Detroit’s most successful businesses business will share their savvy and wisdom for longevity. The second panel, The Youngins’ Show-and-Tell, will showcase the emerging entrepreneurs who have leveraged the resources in the entrepreneurial ecosystem to start and grow their companies, while overcoming obstacles to keep their doors open. 

Attendees will also enjoy a fireside chat between Marlo Rencher, Ph.D., president of Detroit Means Business, and Mark Douglass, president of Avis Ford, to learn even more tips for business longevity. The day will end with a video tribute to TechTown alumni and legacy business owners that will celebrate their success while honoring the history of Detroit’s Black business community.  

A dozen organizations will participate in our resource fair, showcasing information about loan programs, business training classes and technical assistance for aspiring entrepreneurs and existing businesses. 

To encourage the future generation, we’re hosting a pitch competition for high school juniors and seniors to share an innovative solution that will help their favorite Black-owned business level up their success.