Detroit Gives $300,000 to 13 Startups in First Round of City Innovation Fund

Detroit awarded $300,000 to thirteen local startups on Wednesday. The money marks the start of a $700,000 push to strengthen new businesses in the city.

Out of 600 applications, three companies won $50,000 each. Ten others got $15,000 grants. The selection process started last summer when the Detroit Economic Growth Corp. began reviewing submissions.

"This is what we hoped for when we created this fund. We have brilliant entrepreneurs in Detroit building companies that solve real problems," said Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, per Crain's Detroit. "These founders are building jobs and proving Detroit is where the future gets built."

The top grants went to CircNova, JustAir Solutions, and Motmot. CircNova mixes AI with RNA treatments. JustAir Solutions builds software to track air quality. Motmot creates robots that swim underwater to check pipes.

The smaller grants support a mix of ideas. Lectric Boil makes cooking systems powered by the sun. Fluoroscreen wants to spot cancer sooner. R.U.S.H. Healthcare brings doctors right to your home. Stock Pal watches social media to help with investing.

Kids can watch shows made by winner Boone Productions. DAT's LAW GAMES teaches people about their rights through phone apps. Neumo watches out for tired drivers. ThermoVerse cuts down on wasted power.

Winners stood out for their good ideas, chances of success, and Detroit roots. Most founders, eleven out of thirteen, live in Detroit.

The big winners show strong growth signs. CircNova got $3.3 million from investors in February. The government gave Motmot $1.55 million to study their ideas. JustAir's leader made it onto Crain's top young leaders list this year.

Detroit Economic Growth Corp. President Kevin Johnson pointed to the city's past success. "Detroit has always been about innovation, and these startups prove that legacy is alive and well," Johnson said in a statement.

City officials think the program will add over $1 million in business growth. In 2026, they'll pick 13 more companies to support with a second round of money.