About DEI

Mission Statement
It is the mission of the Detroit Entrepreneurship Institute, Inc. to provide entrepreneurship and economic assistance to individuals in Southeast Michigan with barriers to accessing resources in order to enhance their economic condition and that of their community.

  
What is DEI?
The Detroit Entrepreneurship Institute, Inc. (DEI) is a non profit 501 (C)(3) corporation that has been assisting with business and economic development since 1990. DEI is the recipient of a Presidential Award for “Excellence in Developing Entrepreneurial Skills”. DEI is nationally known for its efforts in serving thousands of individuals, many with low incomes, to start and expand their businesses.

DEI has worked with corporate, public and private foundation partners to fulfill its mission of making business development opportunities available to all citizens regardless of income and resources. 
Who Qualifies?
DEI is open to anyone wishing to start or expand a business. All you need is an idea, skill, talent and the necessary license required for your specific business industry.

Any Requirements?
You must attend mandatory orientation session before applying for DEI’s business training classes. At the orientation we will answer your questions and provide information regarding our programs, fees and loan fund. more

President/CEO
Cathy McClelland
The path and journey to success is not an easy one. It takes an incredible amount of courage, determination and perseverance to build and sustain a business. Excellence is only obtained through discipline and practice. DEI is committed to assisting individuals with starting and growing their businesses. DEI looks forward to helping you along your entrepreneurial journey.

DEI Board of Directors
Chairman Raymond Plowden

Dear Colleagues, Friends and Supporters:

Our nation and world have changed tremendously. We are working to secure our nation and to recover from an economic recession which has left thousands of people seeking employment. As we review and implement our options for economic recovery, the development of entrepreneurship through small business is at the top of the list. As in the past, a jump-start of the economy will come from an increase in productivity from the small business sector, and most of those who are now seeking employment will be hired by small businesses. These factors make the Detroit Entrepreneurship Institute’s mission of economic growth and alleviation of poverty through business development and entrepreneurship all the more important.

DEI is in the right place to help the city and state revitalize our communities and neighborhoods through entrepreneurship. The variety of programs that we offer are some of the most unique and best in the state, if not in the entire nation. Our dedicated Board of Directors, officers, staff and instructors work hard to create a world-class institution.

Very Truly Yours,


Raymond G. Plowden
Chairman
DEI's Impact
    • 6,672 Clients Served
    • 4,490 Enrolled in Training Programs
    • 786 Started or Expanded Businesses
    • 94% of Clients are from Low-to-Moderate Income Households
    • 94% of Clients are Minorities
    • 62% of Clients are Women
    • 34% of Clients are Welfare Recipients