HERE! SPOTLIGHT COMPANY

Denek Contracting stands as a cornerstone of quality and reliability in Michigan’s construction industry. With a proven track record built over decades, the company has become a trusted name in foundation systems, poured concrete walls, waterproofing, and structural concrete solutions. Their commitment to precision, safety, and craftsmanship has made them the go-to partner for builders, developers, and homeowners who demand excellence from the ground up. At Denek, every project begins with integrity — ensuring strong foundations, lasting performance, and complete client satisfaction.

Tel: (586) 781-9670

Website: https://denekcontracting.com/ 

Address: 451 E Wilson Ave.
Pontiac, MI 48341

Rendering of a modern six-story innovation center with a ground-floor café and adjacent residential tower on a Detroit city street

University of Michigan Unveils Center for Innovation in Detroit

Detroit, Michigan, October 21, 2025

The University of Michigan revealed plans and renderings for a new Center for Innovation in Detroit, a six-story, 200,000-gross-square-foot facility at Grand River Avenue and West Columbia Street. Designed to combine public-facing programs, multidisciplinary graduate research, and workforce development, the center will include a café and shared office spaces on lower floors with research labs above. An adjacent residential tower will be leased long-term to provide housing for students, faculty and visiting scholars. Funded through major gifts, state support and donor contributions, the project aims to strengthen Detroit’s innovation ecosystem and expand community engagement opportunities.

Detroit Unveils New University of Michigan Center for Innovation

Detroit, Michigan – The University of Michigan has unveiled new details and renderings for the University of Michigan Center for Innovation (UMCI) in Detroit. This state-of-the-art facility aims to foster collaboration in technology and research, enhancing the city’s innovation ecosystem and creating opportunities for students and professionals.

Project Overview

The UMCI is a six-story building covering 200,000 gross square feet, located at the intersection of Grand River Avenue and West Columbia Street in Detroit. Construction began in December 2023, with an expected completion in 2027. The facility is designed to advance innovation and talent-focused community development, contributing to job creation and economic growth in Detroit and the surrounding region.

Design and Features

The building’s design, approved by the University of Michigan Board of Regents, includes:

  • Public-Facing Programs: The first two floors will house a café, shared office spaces for the U-M Detroit Center, Admissions Office, and School of Environment and Sustainability Clinic, as well as other public programs.
  • Graduate Research Facilities: Levels three through six are dedicated to multidisciplinary graduate research.
  • Residential Component: Adjacent to the UMCI building, a residential tower at 2205 Cass Ave. is being developed by Related Companies and Olympia Development of Michigan. The University of Michigan plans to lease the entire residential building for an initial term of 40 years, providing housing for students, faculty, and visiting scholars.

Community Engagement

UMCI is designed to be a catalyst for positive change, presenting itself along Grand River Avenue as a “gateway for innovation.” The facility will offer a mixed-model approach, including both master’s degrees and workforce development programs focused on technology and innovation. Additionally, UMCI plans to host community engagement activities for Detroit residents, ranging from K-12 programs like the Michigan Engineering Zone to the Detroit Neighborhood Entrepreneurs Project and many more.

Background

The University of Michigan Center for Innovation is part of a broader initiative to enhance economic development in Detroit. The project is funded through a combination of sources, including a $100 million gift from Stephen M. Ross, a $100 million state appropriation, and $50 million from various donors. This funding underscores a broad base of support for this transformative project.

Timeline

  • December 2023: Construction began on the UMCI building.
  • July 2025: The University of Michigan plans to lease the entire residential building adjacent to UMCI for an initial term of 40 years.
  • 2027: Expected completion of the UMCI building.

Conclusion

The University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit represents a significant investment in the city’s future, aiming to create a dynamic ecosystem where transformative ideas can flourish. By integrating research, education, and community engagement, UMCI is poised to play a pivotal role in Detroit’s ongoing revitalization and economic development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the University of Michigan Center for Innovation (UMCI)?

The UMCI is a six-story building covering 200,000 gross square feet, located at the intersection of Grand River Avenue and West Columbia Street in Detroit. Construction began in December 2023, with an expected completion in 2027. The facility is designed to advance innovation and talent-focused community development, contributing to job creation and economic growth in Detroit and the surrounding region.

What are the key features of the UMCI building?

The building’s design includes:

  • Public-Facing Programs: The first two floors will house a café, shared office spaces for the U-M Detroit Center, Admissions Office, and School of Environment and Sustainability Clinic, as well as other public programs.
  • Graduate Research Facilities: Levels three through six are dedicated to multidisciplinary graduate research.
  • Residential Component: Adjacent to the UMCI building, a residential tower at 2205 Cass Ave. is being developed by Related Companies and Olympia Development of Michigan. The University of Michigan plans to lease the entire residential building for an initial term of 40 years, providing housing for students, faculty, and visiting scholars.

How is the UMCI project funded?

The project is funded through a combination of sources, including a $100 million gift from Stephen M. Ross, a $100 million state appropriation, and $50 million from various donors. This funding underscores a broad base of support for this transformative project.

What is the expected completion date for the UMCI building?

The expected completion date for the UMCI building is 2027.

Key Features of the UMCI Project

Feature Description
Public-Facing Programs The first two floors will house a café, shared office spaces for the U-M Detroit Center, Admissions Office, and School of Environment and Sustainability Clinic, as well as other public programs.
Graduate Research Facilities Levels three through six are dedicated to multidisciplinary graduate research.
Residential Component Adjacent to the UMCI building, a residential tower at 2205 Cass Ave. is being developed by Related Companies and Olympia Development of Michigan. The University of Michigan plans to lease the entire residential building for an initial term of 40 years, providing housing for students, faculty, and visiting scholars.
Funding Sources The project is funded through a combination of sources, including a $100 million gift from Stephen M. Ross, a $100 million state appropriation, and $50 million from various donors. This funding underscores a broad base of support for this transformative project.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Detroit Announces New Multimodal Transportation Hub Adjacent to Michigan Central Station
Detroit debuts first public wireless-charging roadway for EVs
Michigan Raises EV Registration Fees by 83%
Detroit’s New Transit Hub Advances with Potential Canadian Expansion
Detroit Commercial Construction Boom Transforms Downtown
Major Upgrades Expand Detroit’s Public Transit Hubs
Detroit Announces New Multimodal Transportation Hub to Enhance Mobility
Detroit to Develop New Multimodal Transportation Hub
Detroit Launches $40M Plan to Turn Michigan Central Station into Intercity Rail Hub
Garland Street Homes in Detroit Available After Historic Renovations

STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
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.

FOLLOW HERE! ON

GO!

This story is part of our Local Spotlight series, supported by Denek Contracting . All reporting reflects HERE Detroit independent editorial standards. About Our Process.

WordPress Ads