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Technology, Innovation Conference Returns To Detroit

COREY WILLIAMS, Associated Press

DETROIT (AP) — Techies are converging on Detroit to check out the latest in gadgets and innovation.

The 7-day Techweek Detroit returns to the Motor City for the second straight year Monday, as the city continues to move further from its deep manufacturing roots toward becoming a tech-hub.

Detroit's tech revival is showcased by the event, said Allison Konkel, Techweek Detroit's chief strategy officer.

"Techweek's mission is to build a better world through tech entrepreneurship," she said in a release. "In Detroit, we want to bring together the best and brightest in technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation for a week that is jam-packed with events where cutting edge technology is on display."

More than 30 local and national industry leaders are scheduled to speak at the event which is presented by Quicken Loans. Dan Gilbert, founder and chair of the Detroit-based online mortgage lender, has brought hundreds of jobs to Detroit after moving the company downtown.

He has called the section of Woodward Avenue near his headquarters "Webward Avenue."

A federally funded lightweight metals research program has opened in Detroit's Corktown neighborhood. General Motors Co. announced this week that it plans a major overhaul of its technical center just north of Detroit in Warren. The automaker's headquarters is in downtown Detroit.

Many of Detroit's emerging success-stories across technology, including those in finance, startups, health, e-commerce, fashion, makers and more will be recognized and discussed at Techweek Detroit.

The event "will bring together remarkable ideas, important conversations and an incredible experience to provide a platform on which to unite those who are passionate about technology," said Konkel.

It will include a two-day conference and expo Thursday and Friday at Ford Field. A hiring fair also will be held Friday.

Pre-qualified startup companies also will compete for cash and sponsor-donated gifts valued at $50,000. Each participating startup will pitch its business and will be judged by a panel of top tech and business leaders.

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Online: http://techweek.com/detroit

 

Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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