Ever since the invention of the assembly line, Detroit has been emblematic of American technological ingenuity. Built around the United States' automotive industry, Motor City was founded on progress and forward motion. Today, Detroit's legacy lives on and sparks of innovation fly in the city’s other industries, specifically tech. Some of the auto manufacturers who put Detroit on the global map are adopting new technologies to make their vehicles safer and more efficient, but there’s also a wealth of startups in other sectors showcasing the city’s inventive spirit.
After a long road of highs and lows, Detroit is on the upswing, since 2015 the Michigan metro has seen an over 25 percent bump in available tech jobs, making the city a no-brainer destination for software engineers and IT professionals looking to put down roots. From marketing software to healthcare technology, check out how these tech companies in Detroit have their eyes locked on the future of tech.
Tech Companies in Detroit to Know
General Motors
Magna International
Detroit Labs
Cadillac
Urban Science
MSX International
StockX
Rocket
InvestNext
Founded: 1964
Focus: Audio products
What they do: Bose operates an automotive systems division with a hub in Detroit, where it develops sound systems and audio technology for vehicles. Its automotive business integrates hardware and software to deliver in-vehicle audio experiences for major manufacturers. The company maintains active hiring across engineering, program management and account management roles in the Detroit area.
Founded: 2016
Focus: Software, Financial Services
What they do: InvestNext is making the fundraising process more transparent and enjoyable for investment firms and investors. With a comprehensive platform, organizations can automate subscriptions, legal documents, and investment waterfalls for a smoother experience. InvestNext also allows firms to keep investors up to speed on investment performances, so all parties can make more informed decisions.
Founded: 2009
Focus: Security
What they do: Duo creates modern access security solutions that enable people to have more control over their data. Specializing in two-factor authentication solutions, Duo's MFA, SSO, remote access and device trusting capabilities ensure that all users, applications and devices remain safe and undisturbed at all times.
Founded: 2011
Focus: Software
What they do: Detroit Labs is primarily a software development company, but their comprehensive service suite provides each of its clients with solutions for web, mobile and experiential digital design. The company has worked on past projects such as sales engagement tools, utilities tracking apps, interactive site designs, and more for companies like Bosch, Chevrolet, Hyundai and Domino’s.
Founded: 1985
Focus: Real Estate, Fintech
What they do: Rocket is a Detroit-based enterprise operating a portfolio of companies that includes Rocket Mortgage, its flagship mortgage and home refinancing solutions provider. Acquisitions of platforms like Redfin and Mr. Cooper, plus a 500,000-listing alliance with Compass, have positioned Rocket as a major player in fintech and real estate technology.
Founded: 1996
Focus: IT
What they do: MSX International builds cutting-edge technologies for use by transportation and automotive manufacturers, providing its clients with fleet management software, channel management services, warranty products and a variety of other solutions. MSX International delivers outsourced business technologies to companies across the globe in over 80 countries, and the company maintains presences aside from its Detroit offices in the U.K., Spain, Germany, Sweden, Italy and Australia.
Founded: 2015
Focus: Artificial Intelligence
What they do: Aggregate Intelligence helps companies and entrepreneurs better harness their data to optimize their operations, offering a scalable AI platform that scans large data sets to guide clients in honing their business approaches. By delivering intelligent data in both spreadsheet form and in platform integrations, Aggregate Technology puts the power of analytics in its clients hands, enhancing their understanding of their particular industries and customer bases.
Founded: 1957
Focus: Automotive, Robotics
Magna International makes components for vehicles. Its four departments — body exteriors and structure, power and vision, seating systems and complete vehicles — produce products like chassis, powertrain systems, mirrors, lighting and electronics. Founded in the 1950s, the company develops driver assistance products in the ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) ecosystem, which use tech to increase road safety.
Founded: 1977
Focus: Marketing, Automotive
What they do: The Urban Science team helps companies in the automotive industry reach their growth goals by offering marketing services designed to generate leads. The company gathers data from each client's customer base and utilizes market trends to develop targeted campaigns, consumer engagement strategies, and dealership network plans.
Founded: 2005
Focus: Analytics
What they do: Dynatrace offers an automation and analytics platform that simplifies cloud compl exity to ensure its clients can deliver safely and efficiently. It uses AI to strategize, offer recommendations, create workflows and provide answers. Its Detroit office is located near Comerica Park.
Founded: 1902
Focus: Automotive
What they do: Cadillac is a leader in the automotive industry, manufacturing sedans, SUVs, electric vehicles and a number of other transportation products. Cadillac equips its vehicles with the latest technologies, giving its customers the opportunity to experience connected vehicle technology and advanced AI powered safety features.
Founded: 1908
Focus: Automotives
What they do: General Motors is one of the oldest automotive companies in Detroit, and its impacts on the industry have led to a broad variety of advancements in vehicle safety, efficiency and accessibility. Aside from their traditional vehicle offerings, the company's team is working to develop zero emissions and EV technologies to help make the automotive industry more sustainable.
Founded: 2007
Focus: Cybersecurity
What they do: Zscaler delivers cloud-based cybersecurity software that protects enterprises worldwide, including businesses, critical infrastructure organizations and government agencies. Its technology secures over 750 billion transactions every day, bolstering defenses against cyber threats and data losses. The company maintains a remote sales team operating in the Detroit market.
Founded: 2018
Focus: Healthcare Technology
What they do: Accurate Accreditation helps healthcare organizations simplify their financial and logistical operations, offering software-powered solutions for communications, records keeping, and other regular operations. Its centralized interactive platform provides clients with a dashboard with which they can view training records, scheduling, and other necessary information, helping healthcare clients reduce risks and errors in daily tasks.
Founded: 2016
Focus: E-commerce
What they do: StockX hosts an e-commerce platform for selling and purchasing footwear, accessories and other streetwear products. StockX's sales model mimics stock market operations in that buyers can place bids on items they want with anonymity. Additionally, the company carries products from some of the top brands in streetwear, including Air Jordan, Supreme, and Ivy Park.
