A Catalyst for Growth in the Heart of Detroit
80 Detroit Revitalization Fellows
since 201111th largest
employer in DetroitAPLU winner
2024 Innovation and Economic Prosperity (IEP) Award - ConnectionsAs the 11th largest employer in Detroit, with a $4.6 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. Examples of work DEED has launched, led or impacted include:
- Woodward | Warren Park.
- The growth of nearly 800 small businesses, largely Black- and women-owned, like The Social Club and Walker-Miller Energy.
- WayneRides: free transit passes for Wayne State staff and students on MoGo, SMART, DDOT.
- Fundraising and support for the Wayne State University (WSU) Police Department.
- Live Midtown.
DEED works closely 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 about what we do.
Celebrating A Decade of Impact and Excellence
News
- Multi-year collaboration between Wayne State and MillerKnoll showcases creativity, collaboration and impact
- Michigan Mobility Fellows program reflects on successful first year, opens applications for second cohort starting June 2026
- TechTown releases 2025 impact report: 1,200+ entrepreneurs served, 2,000+ jobs created and maintained
- TechTown welcomes new members to board of directors and board of trustees
- Students launch Wayne State's first zero-waste athletic event at the WSU Fieldhouse