A Catalyst for Growth in the Heart of Detroit

302,167 alumni

(more than 70%) live and work in Michigan

200

revenue-generating student businesses

2,025

residents attracted and retained through Live Midtown

As the 11th largest employer in Detroit, with a $2.75 billion annual economic impact, Wayne State is a powerful economic driver. The Division of Entrepreneurship and Economic Development (DEED) was established in 2011 to lead the university's efforts to stimulate growth in our Midtown neighborhood and Detroit, the city we proudly call home.

Woodward | Warren Park. MoGo. The growth of nearly 800 small businesses, largely Black- and women-owned, like The Social Club and Walker-Miller Energy. Free transit passes for Wayne State students. Fundraising and support for the Wayne State University (WSU) Police Department. Live Midtown. Over the last decade, all of these projects and more have been launched, led or impacted by DEED.

Now, in our 11th year, DEED is working in close partnership with campus and community partners to help our city and region emerge from the economic challenges of today ready to embrace the opportunities of tomorrow. We envision and contribute to an increasingly vibrant Detroit and Michigan with equitable access to opportunity and lasting prosperity for all. Learn more.

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Celebrating A Decade of Impact and Excellence
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