BUSINESS RETENTION
Supporting the sustainability and growth of Detroit-based businesses.
ABOUT US
Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC)
The DEGC serves as the City of Detroit’s economic development agency. We are contracted by the City to drive business growth, investment, and job creation across Detroit.
Business Retention Program
The Business Retention Program supports the growth and sustainability of Detroit-based companies*, including industrial firms, corporate offices, and high-growth start-ups.
*Note: We do not directly serve solopreneurs or retail businesses.
Please visit the Small Business Services team’s web page for dedicated support.
BUSINESS RETENTION MEETING OVERVIEW
Meeting Objectives
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Learn about your business vision, potential growth plans, needs, and challenges
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Connect your business to DEGC and our partner resources
Typical Meeting Attendees
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Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC) representatives
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Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
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Wayne County Economic Development
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Detroit at Work
Typical Meeting Agenda
1. Company Overview: Brief description of the company, its core capabilities, and the customers, industries, and regions it serves
2. Key Facts: Year founded, number of employees, median hourly wage, recent capital investments
3. Market Trends: Insights on industry shifts, emerging opportunities, and competitive challenges
4. Goals for Growth: Expanding operations, creating jobs, launching new products, facility and/or equipment investments
5. Areas of Support: Hiring, workforce training, employee retention services (e.g., childcare, transportation, mental health), expanding customer base, launching a new product or service, facility expansion, site selection, facility investment or renovation, equipment upgrades, business financing or loans, navigating city processes or permits
HOW WE SUPPORT BUSINESSES
Strategic Business Consultation – Evaluate your business needs, growth opportunities, and connect to resources like grants, loans, technical support, and networking.
City of Detroit Support – Navigate city departments
to streamline projects and resolve challenges including zoning, permitting, procurement, taxes, and land sales.
Facility Expansion & Rehabilitation – Support site selection, building upgrades, and expansions leveraging city/state tax incentives.
Workforce & Talent Development – Facilitate hiring, training, and employee retention with Detroit at Work
and partners. Includes support like transportation, childcare, and mental health resources.
Grow Your Market – Expand your customer base, pursue contracts, and access marketing, design, and international sales support.
REQUEST BUSINESS SUPPORT
BUSINESS RETENTION TEAM
MARA BRACISZEWSKI
Business Retention Manager
HATTIE FRANKHOUSE
Economic Development Coordinator