AI and Automation: Build Night
2026-02-24 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | WSU Industry Innovation Center (I2C), 461 Burroughs St, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Join us with Detroit’s builders for an intensive hands-on session where you’ll learn practical AI and automation, build working prototypes with expert mentors, and demo what you shipped by the end of the night.
What is Build Night?
TechTown’s AI and Automation Build Nights are a monthly series designed for beginners, founders, and builders who want to move beyond theory and actually ship something. Whether you’re a starting founder building your next product, a developer learning new tools, or someone just curious about AI then this is your night to experiment, collaborate, and create something real.
No pitch decks. No talking about building. Just build!
Who should attend?

Beginners with no coding experience (we provide templates and guided support)
Founders building products who need mentor help to ship an MVP feature
Developers wanting to learn AI tools while building with experts
Product builders looking to automate workflows and operations
Anyone curious about AI who wants hands-on experience

What you will leave with:

Hands-on mentorship from industry experts
Free tool credits (Lovable, Replit, Zapier, Make, and more)
A working prototype or automation by end of night
Food and refreshments provided
Application pathway for continued TechTown support
Connections to Detroit’s builder and founder community
Demo time to showcase your work and get feedback

Come connect with fellow founders, curious people, exchange ideas, and build relationships with people who understand the challenges and excitement of building something new!
Join us every month for our AI and Automation: Build Night and become part of a thriving tech ecosystem. Reserve your spot today!

Open House - Wyandotte
2026-02-24 18:00 - 20:00 | 3239 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte, MI 48192, 3239 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte, MI, 48192, United States
Stop by and learn more about TechTown Detroit and the resources available to support Wayne County small businesses. TechTown is coming to Wyandotte to connect directly with local entrepreneurs and business owners. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with the TechTown team, learn about available programs and services, and explore how our resources can support businesses at every stage—from idea to growth. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to take your business to the next level, this is a great chance to ask questions, make connections, and learn how TechTown can support your business journey.
This event is made possible with support from: Community Choice Credit Union | Develop Downriver | TechTown Detroit | Shop the Dotte

Start Studio Lecture Series
2026-02-18 17:30 - 19:30 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Join us for our Start Studio Lecture Series! An energizing monthly workshop designed to empower aspiring and early-stage tech founders throughout 2026. Each session brings together entrepreneurs, innovators, and ecosystem partners for a hands on learning, thoughtful discussion, and practical skill-building rooted in the realities of launching and growing a tech-based venture.
This lecture series will be: From Good Prompts to Reliable Systems
AI tools like ChatGPT, Lovable, and other generative platforms are becoming essential for early-stage founders—but knowing how to talk to them effectively is what unlocks real value. In this introductory lecture, participants will learn the fundamentals of prompt engineering: how to structure prompts, think in systems instead of one-off requests, and use AI more efficiently across product development, customer discovery, and operations. Designed for non-technical founders, this session breaks down key concepts like tokens, context, and iterative prompting in plain language.
The lecture will also include a live, real-world demonstration, showing how founders can ask AI to help design their own prompt roadmap turning AI into a collaborative thinking partner rather than just a reactive tool.
Participants will leave with:

A practical framework for writing better prompts
A clearer understanding of how AI tools “think”
Take-home prompts they can immediately apply to their startup work

No technical background required!
Every month features a unique workshop led by a different expert facilitator, offering fresh perspectives and actionable insights across a wide range of topics such as customer discovery and prototyping to fundraising, product strategy, and founder resilience. Whether you’re shaping an early idea or preparing to scale, you’ll find guidance that meets you where you are.
Come connect with fellow founders, exchange ideas, and build relationships with people who understand the challenges and excitement of building something new. Each session also highlights emerging founders in the Start Studio community, offering inspiration and real-world examples of entrepreneurial growth.
Join us every month for our Start Studio Lecture Series and become part of a thriving tech ecosystem. Reserve your spot today!

Finance Meets Function
2026-02-18 09:30 - 11:00 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Wednesday, February 18 | 9:30 A.M.

This session will be held in person at TechTown Detroit

Join OPS+ and Orsa Credit Union for an exclusive session designed to simplify your back-office operations and supercharge your small business banking. Discover how to bridge the gap between financial strategy and daily management to fuel your business’s growth in Michigan.

Recover While You Build: Burnout recovery and prevention for entrepreneurs
2026-02-12 11:00 - 13:00 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Thursday, Feb. 12 | 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

This session will be held in-person at TechTown Detroit. Registration opens at 10:30 a.m., with the session starting promptly at 11:00 a.m.

This is a practical, strategy-based workshop for entrepreneurs and high achievers juggling multiple priorities and projects simultaneously. It’s designed for those who don’t have the luxury of pausing their lives to recover from burnout, but who also know the status quo is no longer sustainable.
The session reframes burnout from a personal failure to a systems problem, helping participants identify root causes and put guardrails in place to prevent it from recurring. Through real-world strategies, participants will learn how to restore energy, clarity, and capacity without slowing momentum in their day-to-day work. Rather than focusing on surface-level self-care, this workshop emphasizes redesigning how you work, lead, and scale so recovery and growth can happen simultaneously.
Participants will leave with a clear understanding of their burnout patterns, tools to reduce energy drain, and a sustainable plan for success that doesn’t depend on self-sacrifice.

2026 Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest Information Session (evening)
2026-02-11 18:00 - 20:00 | Next Chapter Books, 16555 E Warren Ave, Detroit, MI, 48224, United States
Wednesday, February 11 | 6 – 8 p.m.

This info session will be held in person at Next Chapter Books

Small businesses. Big impact.

The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown is a retail competition that gives savvy entrepreneurs the chance to win a $100,000 cash grant and a package of in-kind services to open up their brick-and-mortar storefront in Detroit, Hamtramck, or Highland Park.
This information session will allow you to learn more about the contest, the application and selection process, and the contest timeline. Please note that this is not a one-on-one coaching session, and we will not be able to answer questions specifically about your business.
We highly recommend you attend in person and connect with other small businesses and TechTown resources.
Find the application and more details about the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown at hatchdetroit.com.
Sign up to receive Hatch Detroit emails and stay in the loop about the contest, alumni, and more!

2026 Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest Information Session (Day)
2026-02-11 12:00 - 14:00 | Southwest Detroit Business Association, 7752 W Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI, 48209, United States
Wednesday, February 11 | 12 – 2 p.m.

This info session will be held in person at Southwest Detroit Business Association

Small businesses. Big impact.

The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown is a retail competition that gives savvy entrepreneurs the chance to win a $100,000 cash grant and a package of in-kind services to open up their brick-and-mortar storefront in Detroit, Hamtramck, or Highland Park.
This information session will allow you to learn more about the contest, the application and selection process, and the contest timeline. Please note that this is not a one-on-one coaching session, and we will not be able to answer questions specifically about your business.
We highly recommend you attend in person and connect with other small businesses and TechTown resources.
Find the application and more details about the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown at hatchdetroit.com.
Sign up to receive Hatch Detroit emails and stay in the loop about the contest, alumni, and more!

First Thursdays
2026-02-05 17:30 - 19:30, 2026-01-08 17:30 - 19:30 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Join us for a dynamic networking event that brings together entrepreneurs, startups, and ecosystem partners in a celebration of innovation and collaboration. First Thursdays is a monthly gathering where the entrepreneurial community comes together to share ideas, learn from one another, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or just starting out, you’ll find value in this welcoming space.
Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and industry experts, and discover opportunities to collaborate with like-minded individuals. Each month, we spotlight up-and-coming business owners to share what they do and inspire others in the community. Interested in being featured as a business spotlight participant? Complete the interest form! Join us at First Thursdays and become part of a thriving community.
First Thursdays is made possible with support from the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC).
Reserve your spot today!

2026 Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest Information Session
2026-01-28 18:00 - 20:00 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Small businesses. Big impact.
The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown is a retail competition that gives savvy entrepreneurs the chance to win a $100,000 cash grant and a package of in-kind services to open up their brick-and-mortar storefront in Detroit, Hamtramck, or Highland Park.
This information session will allow you to learn more about the contest, the application and selection process, and the contest timeline. Please note that this is not a one-on-one coaching session, and we will not be able to answer questions specifically about your business.
We highly recommend you attend in person and connect with other small businesses and TechTown resources.
Find the application and more details about the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown at hatchdetroit.com.
Sign up to receive Hatch Detroit emails and stay in the loop about the contest, alumni, and more!

The SHOP at TechTown
2026-01-28 11:00 - 14:00 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Experience the best of Detroit’s small business community at The SHOP, TechTown Detroit’s monthly retail pop-up marketplace! Join us in person on the last Wednesday of every month to explore unique products, connect with local entrepreneurs and uncover your next favorite find. Mark your calendar and join us for a vibrant shopping experience celebrating Detroit’s small business community!
Interested in participating in The SHOP? Submit an interest form today!
The SHOP at TechTown is made possible with support from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and Wells Fargo.

2026 Retail Boot Camp Info Session
2026-01-27 18:00 - 19:00 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
TechTown’s Retail Boot Camp (RBC) is an intensive 12-week program that prepares entrepreneurs for opening brick-and-mortar establishments in Wayne County. The program’s curriculum is designed to strengthen businesses ready to expand to a permanent location and thrive in today’s retail environment.
Retail Boot Camp Info Sessions provide an opportunity to learn about the program, who is a good fit, and what to expect during the application process.
Have more questions about Retail Boot Camp? Please contact carrie@staging.techtowndetroit.org.
Retail Boot Camp is made possible with support from:
Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation | Relentless Care Foundation by Community Financial | Huntington Bank

Start Studio Lecture Series (Virtual)
2026-01-21 17:30 - 19:30 | https://techtowndetroit-org.zoom.us/j/87387880731?pwd=[REDACTED]
Due to inclement weather, this event will be virtual! (please see below for more info)
Introduction to Prompt Engineering
AI tools like ChatGPT, Lovable, and other generative platforms are becoming essential for early-stage founders—but knowing how to talk to them effectively is what unlocks real value.
In this introductory lecture, participants will learn the fundamentals of prompt engineering: how to structure prompts, think in systems instead of one-off requests, and use AI more efficiently across product development, customer discovery, and operations. Designed for non-technical founders, this session breaks down key concepts like tokens, context, and iterative prompting in plain language.
The lecture will also include a live, real-world demonstration, showing how founders can ask AI to help design their own prompt roadmap—turning AI into a collaborative thinking partner rather than just a reactive tool.
Participants will leave with:

A practical framework for writing better prompts
A clearer understanding of how AI tools “think”
Take-home prompts they can immediately apply to their startup work

No technical background required!
Every month features a unique workshop led by a different expert facilitator, offering fresh perspectives and actionable insights across a wide range of topics such as customer discovery and prototyping to fundraising, product strategy, and founder resilience. Whether you’re shaping an early idea or preparing to scale, you’ll find guidance that meets you where you are.
Join us for our Start Studio Lecture Series! An energizing monthly workshop designed to empower aspiring and early-stage tech founders throughout 2026. Each session brings together entrepreneurs, innovators, and ecosystem partners for a hands on learning, thoughtful discussion, and practical skill-building rooted in the realities of launching and growing a tech-based venture.
Every month features a unique workshop led by a different expert facilitator, offering fresh perspectives and actionable insights across a wide range of topics such as customer discovery and prototyping to fundraising, product strategy, and founder resilience. Whether you’re shaping an early idea or preparing to scale, you’ll find guidance that meets you where you are.
This lecture series is more than education it’ll become a community anchor.
Come connect with fellow founders, exchange ideas, and build relationships with people who understand the challenges and excitement of building something new. Each session also highlights emerging founders in the Start Studio community, offering inspiration and real-world examples of entrepreneurial growth.
Interested in applying for Start Studio ID? Complete the application form here!
Join us every month for our Start Studio Lecture Series and become part of a thriving tech ecosystem. Reserve your spot today!
If you have any questions or issues please contact us, techprograms@staging.techtowndetroit.org

2026 Retail Boot Camp Info Session (Virtual)
2026-01-20 18:00 - 19:00 | https://staging.techtowndetroit.org/event/2026-retail-boot-camp-info-session-virtual-3/

2026 Retail Boot Camp Info Session (Virtual)
2026-01-13 18:00 - 19:00 | https://staging.techtowndetroit.org/event/2026-retail-boot-camp-info-session-virtual-2/

2026 Retail Boot Camp Info Session (Virtual)
2026-01-08 18:00 - 19:00 | https://staging.techtowndetroit.org/event/2026-retail-boot-camp-info-session-virtual/

First Thursdays
2025-12-04 17:30 - 19:30, 2025-11-06 17:30 - 19:30 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Welcome to First Thursdays: Igniting Entrepreneurial Connections!
Join us for a one-of-a-kind networking event designed to bring together the entrepreneurial community. First Thursdays is more than just a networking event; it’s a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and the spirit of entrepreneurship.
First Thursdays is a gathering where entrepreneurs, startups, and ecosystem partners unite to share ideas, forge connections, and support one another on their entrepreneurial journey. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or starting, First Thursdays offers something for everyone.
What to expect:

Enriching conversations: Engage in meaningful conversations with fellow entrepreneurs, industry experts, and ecosystem partners. Share your experiences, exchange ideas and gain valuable insights that can help propel your business forward.

Valuable insights: Hear from guest speakers, alumni business owners, and industry leaders who will share their insights, tips, and strategies for success. Learn from their successes and failures and discover new ways to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.

Opportunities for collaboration: Discover exciting opportunities for collaboration, partnership, and growth. Whether looking for a co-founder, seeking feedback on your business idea or searching for potential investors, First Thursdays is the perfect place to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for innovation.

Business owner spotlights: Each month, we’ll highlight business owners who have made significant strides in their entrepreneurial journey. Learn from their experiences, celebrate their achievements, and be inspired by their success stories.

Don’t miss out! Join us at First Thursdays and be part of a thriving entrepreneurial community that celebrates innovation, collaboration, and success. Reserve your spot today and take the first step towards igniting meaningful connections and accelerating your entrepreneurial journey!
First Thursdays is made possible with support from the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce.

Holiday Happy Hour with Global Ties Detroit
2025-12-04 16:30 - 18:30 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Join TechTown and Global Ties Detroit for our Holiday Happy Hour on Thurs, Dec. 4, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Expect a Hot Cocoa bar with all the toppings, holiday cookies, appetizers, beverages, along with trivia and prizes! After the happy hour, head on over to First Thursdays, our awesome networking event. Celebrate the end of 2025 with us!

The SHOP | December 3
2025-12-03 11:00 - 14:00 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Experience the best of Detroit’s small business community at The SHOP, TechTown Detroit’s monthly retail pop-up marketplace! Join us in person on the last Wednesday of every month to explore unique products, connect with local entrepreneurs and uncover your next favorite find. Mark your calendar and join us for a vibrant shopping experience celebrating Detroit’s small business community!
The SHOP at TechTown is made possible with support from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and Wells Fargo.

AI With a Clear Vision: Build Your First AI Action Plan
2025-11-25 17:30 - 19:30 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Join us for AI With a Clear Vision, a hands-on working session designed to cut through the noise and help you implement AI in your business—starting tomorrow. This isn’t another theory-heavy seminar. It’s a structured, practical workshop where you’ll walk out with a concrete plan, a scheduled first action, and the clarity to move forward with confidence. This workshop is built for action. In two focused hours, you’ll choose one practical AI use case from your actual work, map out a simple assist flow, establish a critical guardrail, define a measurable success metric, and commit to your first implementation step.
Every attendee leaves with a completed Clear Vision Card—a one-page strategic plan that bridges the gap between AI curiosity and real business value. No fluff, no overwhelm, just a clear path forward.
Register here!

Happy Hour at TechTown
2025-11-20 12:00 - 13:30 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Head to TechTown for another one of our amazing Happy Hours! From noon to 1:30 p.m., come to our Fueling Station on the first floor, where we’ll be serving snacks, beer, and nonalcoholic beverages!
You’ve worked hard — take a break with us!

The SHOP | November 19
2025-11-19 11:00 - 14:00 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States

Get to the Bag: Digital Tools for the Modern Stylist & Barber
2025-11-17 17:30 - 20:00 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
This program is designed to empower local entrepreneurs with the tools, insights and strategies needed to thrive in an ever-eveolving digital economy.
Join us for an engaging session focused on how beauty and barber professionals are using digital technology and artificial intelligence to grow their businesses, streamline operations, and better serve their clients. Whether you’re new to digital tools or already experimenting with AI-driven solutions, this event is designed to meet you where you are.
Key Takeaways:

A clear overview of AI and how it applies to the beauty and barber industries.
Practical, industry-specific strategies to enhance client engagement, marketing, and business management using digital tools.
Real-world examples from local professionals successfully integrating technology into their daily operations.
Access to curated resources and support networks to continue learning and growing after the event.

Register here!

Planning for Your Business
2025-11-05 17:30 - 19:30 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Running a small business takes planning, adaptability, and a clear vision for the future. Whether you operate a food, retail, or CPG business, having a solid plan in place can make all the difference when it comes to sustainable growth and long-term success.
This interactive workshop will guide you through the process of setting realistic goals, preparing for busy seasons and holidays, and developing strategies to stay steady during slower months. You’ll gain valuable insights to help you identify what’s working, where to adjust, and how to keep your business moving forward with intention.
With over 100 years of combined experience, our experts will share proven strategies, lessons learned, and practical advice drawn from their own journeys—offering you the tools and inspiration to help your business thrive in 2026 and beyond.

Happy Hour at TechTown
2025-10-31 12:00 - 13:30 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Join us for our Halloween Happy Hour on Friday, Oct. 31, from noon to 1:30 p.m. We’ll be playing spooky music and host a costume contest for a chance to win prizes! Expect the usual too: snacks, beer and n/a options! Prep your costumes, grab your candy bags and head to TechTown’s Fueling Station for a fantastic time.

The SHOP | October 29
2025-10-29 11:00 - 14:00 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States

Open City: Sleigh the Season
2025-10-23 17:30 - 20:00 | The Congregation, 9321 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI, 48206
The holiday season is one of the most critical times of the year for small businesses—and those who plan often see their biggest wins. This panel will feature entrepreneurs who have successfully maximized holiday sales through creative marketing, strategic promotions, and operational readiness. From pop-up shops and e-commerce strategies to customer engagement and community partnerships, panelists will share the lessons, tools, and tactics that helped them thrive during the busiest season of the year.
Whether you’re preparing for your first holiday rush or looking to level up your existing approach, this conversation will give you practical insights to make the most of the season.

Jobs to Be Done: Understanding What Customers Really Want
2025-10-16 17:30 - 19:30 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
The Jobs to Be Done (JTBD) framework helps entrepreneurs and innovators uncover the real reasons customers “hire” a product or service. Rather than focusing on demographics or surface-level preferences, JTBD digs deeper into the progress people are trying to make in their lives and the obstacles they face.
In this interactive workshop, participants will:

Learn the core principles of the Jobs to Be Done theory and how it differs from traditional market segmentation.
Practice identifying customer “jobs,” desired outcomes, and pain points.
Explore real-world examples of how leading startups use JTBD to create products that resonate.
Apply the framework to their own business ideas, uncovering insights that can guide product development, marketing, and customer discovery.

By the end of the session, you’ll walk away with a sharper understanding of your target customers, tools to reframe their needs as “jobs,” and a process you can integrate into ongoing discovery and validation work.

Toast of the Town
2025-10-10 17:00 - 21:00 | TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs Street, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
Join us at Toast of the Town 2025, TechTown’s 11th annual celebration that proudly honors Detroit’s innovators and entrepreneurs. Don’t miss this powerful evening that champions innovation and recognizes Detroit’s bold risk-takers and builders.
