Detroit Policy Conference Focuses on New Leadership and Economic Growth

The annual event brought together business, civic, and government leaders to discuss collaboration and the potential for Detroit to attract high-tech industries.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Detroit Policy Conference, hosted by the Detroit Regional Chamber, convened this week in downtown Detroit, focusing on a 'new leadership era' for the region and state. The event featured discussions on significant leadership transitions, the potential for Detroit to attract high-tech industries, the need for continued investment in infrastructure and economic development, and the importance of addressing fragmentation within Detroit's culture and fostering greater collaboration for regional economic growth.

Why it matters

The Detroit Policy Conference is a key annual event that brings together influential leaders from various sectors to discuss the city's economic progress and future direction. The discussions and announcements made at the conference can have a significant impact on the region's economic trajectory, job creation, and overall development.

The details

The conference featured discussions on the leadership transitions underway across Michigan, including a new mayor and city council members in Detroit, as well as open races for governor, secretary of state, attorney general, and a U.S. Senate seat. Attendees explored the importance of collaboration among various sectors to drive growth throughout the state. A key theme was the potential for Detroit to attract and retain high-tech industries, with the announcement of Eccalon relocating its corporate headquarters to the city. The conference also addressed the need for continued investment in Detroit's infrastructure and economic development, including the impact of the recently completed Hudson's building and plans for the redevelopment of the 48-acre riverfront area. Discussions also centered on the importance of addressing fragmentation within Detroit's culture and fostering greater collaboration for regional economic growth, as well as the impact of artificial intelligence on the workforce and the role of philanthropy in supporting Detroit's economic ecosystem.

  • The Detroit Policy Conference took place on February 6, 2026.
  • The conference featured discussions on significant leadership transitions underway across Michigan.

The players

André Gudger

Founder and CEO of Maryland-based Eccalon, who announced the relocation of his company's corporate headquarters to Detroit, a move expected to create up to 800 new jobs.

Jared Fleisher

CEO of Bedrock, who discussed the impact of the recently completed Hudson's building and the company's plans for the redevelopment of the 48-acre riverfront area.

Mark de la Vergne

From Michigan Central and Ned Staebler of Wayne State University and TechTown, who explored the challenges of addressing fragmentation within Detroit's culture and fostering greater collaboration for regional economic growth.

Dana Williams

President and CEO of Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation, who emphasized the need for a 'human-centered' approach to AI implementation to ensure that technology benefits workers and addresses potential equity concerns.

Sarida Scott

Vice president of program at The Skillman Foundation, who highlighted the convening power of philanthropy and the importance of connecting various stakeholders to drive positive change.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Michigan wanted us. We're excited to be here and to be part of the future of Detroit.”

— André Gudger, Founder and CEO of Eccalon (newsdirectory3.com)

“The Hudson's building is a symbol of Detroit's rise and inspiration about what's possible.”

— Jared Fleisher, CEO of Bedrock (newsdirectory3.com)

“We need a human-centered approach to AI implementation, ensuring that technology is designed and used in a way that benefits workers and addresses potential equity concerns.”

— Dana Williams, President and CEO of Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (newsdirectory3.com)

What’s next

The conference highlighted the importance of continued investment in Detroit's infrastructure and economic development, including the potential Brownfield credit for the redevelopment of the 48-acre riverfront area. The discussions on addressing fragmentation within Detroit's culture and fostering greater collaboration for regional economic growth are expected to lead to further initiatives and partnerships among the various stakeholders.

The takeaway

The Detroit Policy Conference showcased the city's potential to attract high-tech industries and the importance of collaboration among business, civic, and government leaders to drive economic growth and address the challenges facing the region. The discussions and announcements made at the event indicate a renewed focus on positioning Detroit as a hub for innovation and a leader in the state's economic future.