ANWF: Quicken Investments

Detroit, Michigan (Quicken Investments)

The story of Quicken Investments in Detroit, Michigan is an example of how corporations can play a significant role in shaping the future of cities. The company orchestrated a formidable transformation that rekindled hope and vitality in a city long grappling with economic decline.

Quicken Investments' founder, Dan Gilbert, embarked on a mission to breathe life back into the Motor City. Recognising the potential of a downtown revival, Gilbert invested heavily in restoring and repurposing abandoned buildings. He also invested in the city's burgeoning tech scene, empowering local entrepreneurs and driving a wave of economic diversification. The ripple effect of this investment infused the city with renewed energy and optimism.

As a result of Gilbert's investments, downtown Detroit was transformed into a vibrant hub of business, culture, and innovation. New restaurants, art galleries, and tech start-ups sprung up in once-vacant buildings, and the city attracted a growing number of residents and visitors.

While Quicken Investments' impact on Detroit had been largely positive, there were also concerns raised about gentrification and displacement. As property values in downtown Detroit have increased, some longstanding communities have been forced to move out. The balance between revitalisation and preservation of Detroit's unique cultural fabric remains a constant challenge.

Gentrification is a complex issue with no easy solutions. However, corporations like Quicken Investments can play a role in mitigating its negative effects by investing in affordable housing and other initiatives that better support at-risk communities.

As we navigate A New Way Forward, Quicken Investments challenges us to grapple with the complexities of urban renewal. Rather than viewing cities simply as places to do business, companies can partner with communities to create more liveable and sustainable places.