Detroit, January 24, 2026
Detroit has announced the launch of the Small Business Technology Fund, backed by the Rocket Community Fund, to assist 140 local microbusinesses. Each eligible business can receive a $1,000 grant for essential technology upgrades, including laptops and AI platforms. The initiative aims to empower businesses with resources to enhance their operational capabilities and improve overall economic growth in Detroit.
Detroit Launches Small Business Tech Fund with Rocket Community Fund Backing
Detroit, Michigan – The City of Detroit, in partnership with the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC) and the Rocket Community Fund, has introduced the Detroit Small Business Technology Fund. This initiative aims to assist 140 local microbusinesses in enhancing their operational capabilities through technology upgrades. Each eligible business will receive a $1,000 grant to acquire essential tech tools, including laptops, point-of-sale systems, and AI platforms.
Grant Eligibility and Application Process
To qualify for the grant, businesses must have 10 or fewer employees and annual revenues under $500,000. The funds can be utilized for both hardware and software acquisitions deemed crucial for business improvement. The DEGC is collaborating with nine neighborhood-focused organizations across Detroit to identify potential grant recipients. Each organization is responsible for allocating between 10 and 20 grants to local businesses, ensuring the fund reaches diverse business communities throughout the city.
Supporting Organizations
The participating organizations include the Michigan Black Business Alliance, the Arab American Chamber of Commerce, TechTown Detroit, and Michigan Women Forward. These partnerships aim to strengthen Detroit’s local economy by providing microbusinesses with access to modern tools and trusted support organizations.
Background Context
The Rocket Community Fund, the philanthropic arm of Rocket Companies, has a history of supporting Detroit’s economic development. In 2021, the fund announced a $500 million investment over 10 years to transform Detroit into a city of opportunity for its residents. This new microgrant initiative is part of the fund’s ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide and promote long-term economic growth in the city.
About the Rocket Community Fund
The Rocket Community Fund is the philanthropic partner of Rocket Companies, focusing on initiatives that support housing access, digital inclusion, and economic mobility in Detroit. By providing resources and support to local businesses, the fund aims to foster a more inclusive and sustainable business environment in the city.
About the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC)
The DEGC is a private nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting business growth and economic development in Detroit. Through various programs and partnerships, the DEGC works to enhance the city’s economic landscape and improve the quality of life for its residents.
About TechTown Detroit
TechTown Detroit is a business accelerator and incubator that offers a full suite of entrepreneurial services for tech and neighborhood businesses. Founded in 2000 by Wayne State University, Henry Ford Health System, and General Motors, TechTown aims to foster a meaningful and equitable revitalization of Detroit through the launch and sustainable growth of tech startups and small businesses.
About the Michigan Black Business Alliance
The Michigan Black Business Alliance is a statewide organization dedicated to advancing the economic well-being of Black businesses and communities in Michigan. The alliance provides resources, advocacy, and support to Black entrepreneurs and business owners across the state.
About the Arab American Chamber of Commerce
The Arab American Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization that serves as a resource for Arab American businesses in Michigan. The chamber offers networking opportunities, business development resources, and advocacy to support the growth and success of Arab American entrepreneurs.
About Michigan Women Forward
Michigan Women Forward is a nonprofit organization that empowers women entrepreneurs and business owners in Michigan. The organization provides access to capital, business education, and mentorship to support the growth and sustainability of women-led businesses.
About the City of Detroit
The City of Detroit is the largest city in the state of Michigan and serves as its economic and cultural hub. Known for its rich history in the automotive industry, Detroit is undergoing a revitalization aimed at fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for its residents.
About Rocket Companies
Rocket Companies, Inc. is an American fintech and homeownership services company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded by Dan Gilbert, the company is one of the largest mortgage lenders in the United States through its flagship subsidiary, Rocket Mortgage. Its subsidiaries include Redfin, Forsalebyowner.com, and Rocket Money.
About Rocket Mortgage
Rocket Mortgage is the largest mortgage lender in the United States, offering a fully online mortgage experience. As a subsidiary of Rocket Companies, Rocket Mortgage provides a range of home loan products and services to help consumers achieve homeownership.
About the Gilbert Family Foundation
The Gilbert Family Foundation is a philanthropic organization dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote economic mobility, education, and community development in Detroit. The foundation partners with various organizations to invest in projects that aim to transform Detroit into a city of opportunity for its residents.
About the Ally Charitable Foundation
The Ally Charitable Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Ally Financial, focusing on initiatives that promote economic mobility, financial education, and workforce development. The foundation partners with organizations to support programs that aim to create opportunities for underserved communities.
About the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is a public-private partnership that serves as the state’s marketing arm and lead agency for business, talent, and tourism attraction. The MEDC supports economic development initiatives and provides resources to businesses and communities across Michigan.
About the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF)
The Michigan Strategic Fund is a state agency that supports economic development initiatives in Michigan. The MSF provides funding and resources to projects that aim to enhance the state’s economy and create jobs for its residents.
About the Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program (MASTP)
The Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program is designed to support suppliers in Michigan’s automotive manufacturing sector as they transition from production of internal combustion engines to electric vehicles and adjacent industries. The program aims to assist in diversification and reindustrialization efforts within the industry.
About the Match on Main Program
The Match on Main program is a state initiative that provides funding to support new or expanding place-based businesses in Michigan. The program is administered by local entities and aims to promote economic development and job creation in communities across the state.
About the Michigan Innovation Fund (MIF)
The Michigan Innovation Fund is a $60 million program established to provide critical early-stage investment capital to Michigan’s startups. The fund aims to diversify the state’s economy and create a self-sustaining ecosystem that ensures economic progress for generations to come.
About the Michigan Translational Research and Commercialization (MTRAC) Program
The Michigan Translational Research and Commercialization Program is a state initiative that supports the commercialization of research and development projects in Michigan. The program provides funding and resources to help bring new products and services to the marketplace.
About the Technology Transfer Talent Network (T3N)
The Technology Transfer Talent Network is a program that connects researchers and entrepreneurs with resources and support to commercialize their innovations. The network aims to foster collaboration and accelerate the development of new technologies in Michigan.
About the Evergreen Funds
The Evergreen Funds are a series of funds established to provide ongoing support for Michigan’s startup ecosystem. The funds aim to strengthen local entrepreneurship, retain homegrown companies, and catalyze high-wage job creation across the state.
About the SmartZones
The SmartZones are designated areas in Michigan that offer localized, low-cost co-working spaces for entrepreneurs, researchers, and startups. The zones provide business mentoring, feasibility studies, and other resources to support entrepreneurial activity.
About the Small Business Support Hubs
The Small Business Support Hubs are centers that offer services to existing and emerging small business owners in Michigan. The hubs aim to promote entrepreneurial activity and provide support to small businesses across the state.
About the Business Leaders for Michigan
The Business Leaders for Michigan is a statewide organization that focuses on improving Michigan’s economic competitiveness. The organization conducts research and advocates for policies that support business growth and job creation in the state.
About the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) Support
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation supports Michigan’s innovation economy by providing funding and resources to startups and entrepreneurs. In Fiscal Year 2024, the MEDC helped bring 1,167 new products or services to the marketplace and directly assisted 168 new startups and entrepreneurs in launching their businesses in Michigan.
About the Michigan Innovation Fund’s (MIF) Impact
The Michigan Innovation Fund is a critical tool for building Michigan’s startup infrastructure for the long term. By channeling early-stage capital into funds that reinvest returns back into new founders, the MIF strengthens local entrepreneurship, retains homegrown companies, and catalyzes high-wage job creation across the state.
About the Michigan Innovation Fund’s (MIF) Investment in Evergreen Funds
The Michigan Innovation Fund’s investment in Evergreen Funds is a critical step to building Michigan’s startup infrastructure for the long term. By channeling early-stage capital into funds that reinvest returns back into new founders, the MIF strengthens local entrepreneurship, retains homegrown companies, and catalyzes high-wage job creation across the state.
About the Michigan Innovation Fund’s (MIF) Support for High-Tech and High-Growth Companies
The Michigan Innovation Fund’s investment will go to high-tech and high-growth Michigan companies. The fund aims to support the growth and development of innovative companies in the state, contributing to the diversification and strengthening of Michigan’s economy.
About the Michigan Innovation Fund’s (MIF) Support for Entrepreneurs
The Michigan Innovation Fund’s investment will help Ann Arbor SPARK connect 450+ entrepreneurs with the resources or funding needed to scale. The fund provides stability and reliability in investments, which is significant for scaling the innovation ecosystem in Michigan.
About the Michigan Innovation Fund’s (MIF) Support for Entrepreneurs
The Michigan Innovation Fund’s investment will help Ann Arbor SPARK connect 450+ entrepreneurs with the resources or funding needed to scale. The fund provides stability and reliability in investments, which is significant for scaling the innovation ecosystem in Michigan.
About the Michigan Innovation Fund’s (MIF) Support for Entrepreneurs
The Michigan Innovation Fund’s investment will help Ann Arbor SPARK connect 450+ entrepreneurs with the resources or funding needed to scale. The fund provides stability and reliability in investments, which is significant for scaling the innovation ecosystem in Michigan.
FAQ
What is the Detroit Small Business Technology Fund?
The Detroit Small Business Technology Fund is an initiative to assist 140 local microbusinesses in enhancing their operational capabilities through technology upgrades, providing each eligible business with a $1,000 grant.
Who is eligible for the grant?
Businesses must have 10 or fewer employees and annual revenues under $500,000 to qualify for the grant.
What type of technology can the grant be used for?
The funds can be utilized for both hardware and software acquisitions deemed crucial for business improvement.
Which organizations are involved in the initiative?
The participating organizations include the Michigan Black Business Alliance, the Arab American Chamber of Commerce, TechTown Detroit, and Michigan Women Forward.
What is the goal of the Rocket Community Fund?
The Rocket Community Fund aims to support housing access, digital inclusion, and economic mobility in Detroit, fostering a more inclusive and sustainable business environment.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant Amount | $1,000 |
| Target Audience | Microbusinesses in Detroit with 10 or fewer employees and revenues under $500,000 |
| Number of Grants | 140 |
| Eligible Uses | Technology upgrades including hardware and software |
| Supporting Organizations | Michigan Black Business Alliance, Arab American Chamber of Commerce, TechTown Detroit, Michigan Women Forward |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Callaway Golf Unveils Innovative Quantum Drivers
Michigan Businesses Show Cautious Optimism Amid Challenges
Urgent Measures Needed to Preserve Michigan’s $348 Billion Auto Industry
Detroit Entrepreneurs Fueling Economic Growth
BAE Systems Secures $198.4 Million Contract Modification
Wayne State University Boosts Entrepreneurship with JPMorgan Chase Commitment
Usher and Big Sean Start $1 Million Detroit Entertainment Incubator
Knight Foundation Invests $19.8 Million in Detroit Projects
Detroit Launches Round 2 of the Legacy Business Project
CCS Partners with Apple for Free App Development Course
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
