The city of Detroit and the entire state of Michigan have long been a hotbed of creativity.

Entrepreneurial Creativity

At the dawn of the 20th century and before, Detroit was the center of entrepreneurial endeavors. Automobile fortunes were made and many of the eventual Fortune 500 companies were founded.  In addition to all of the automobile companies in Detroit, there was Parke-Davis Pharmaceuticals, Stroh Brewery, large department stores, and many lumber fortunes, just to name a few.  Before the automobile, Detroit was the stove making capital of America. Out state, there were furniture manufacturers in Grand Rapids, Kellogg’s and Post in Battle Creek, and Dow Chemical in Midland.  There were major companies sprouting up all of the state, companies focused on the future.

Michigan became a victim of its own entrepreneurial success. As companies grew, they developed into big business and became less entrepreneurial.  In response, unions also became big. Big business and big unions replaced Michigan’s once bold entrepreneurism.

Recently, this has begun to change.  Companies are once again starting to be grown.  Startup incubators like Tech Town in Detroit are starting to produce new companies.  The bio-science corridor between Wayne State, Michigan State, and the University of Michigan are having a similar impact.  New startups are making a difference all over the state, but it is only a beginning. For Detroit and Michigan to thrive, we need far more people willing to take on the risk of starting new companies and far more capital available to them for investment.

Artistic Creativity

Detroit has been known for its music. Everyone know about the success of Motown Records, including Stevie Wonder, the Temptations, Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson, and others, with so many of the musicians coming from right here in Detroit. But before Motown, there there was a lively jazz scene that continues to flourish today. Jazz performers coming from Detroit have ranged from Dinah Washington to Marcus Belgrave to Alexander Zonjic.  And Michigan has produced more than its share of rock musicians, from Bob Seger to Alice Cooper or Ted Nugent. In more recent years, Michigan has produced many of the most popular new recording artists, including Eminem, Kid Rock, and White Stripes. To top it off, we have the Detroit Symphony Orchestra that has received rave reviews on its travels around the world.

The Detroit Institute of Arts has long been one of the finest in the country. Throughout the city, there are new galleries, as well as new artists, both local and those moving in from elsewhere.

To further attract creative talent, Detroit can continue to create a people-centered environment. The increased park space along the river is a step in the right direction. Improving the recreational offerings is important. More importantly, creating an environment where people feel accepted regardless of any physical or social difference will attract more of the creative class and more people in general into the city.