How Detroit Plans to Add (and Keep) More People

April 2
19 mins

Episode Description

Detroit is finally seeing population growth and net positive migration — and a new coalition called Move Detroit wants to keep that momentum going. 

Our guest is Hilary Doe, president and CEO of MoveDetroit, to unpack a new incentive fund paid for by a number of partners, the Make Detroit Home program, and a neighborhood ambassador effort designed to keep and attract residents, entrepreneurs, and creatives.

Core incentives inlcude:

  • Up to $500,000 total in benefits distributed to 313 current and future Detroit residents.

  • Select participants can receive $15,000 to use for a business investment or work project, a down payment, home renovation, or other housing subsidy (including rent support).

  • Other selected applicants are eligible for $1,000 in relocation or quality‑of‑life support, which can cover moving costs, security deposits, or things like gym memberships, kayaking lessons, or meal delivery from local restaurants.

We dig into why population growth matters for tax base and small businesses, how this work is funded, and why Hilary believes Detroit can become one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest if the strategy stays driven by Detroiters themselves.

Learn more: https://www.movedetroit.com/

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