Technology businesses have taken hold in Pontiac, Mich. After years of economic struggles, the once automotive boom town has become a haven for startups looking for modern work space and convenient location. Here’s what you need to know about how you can get involved with Pontiac’s growing tech scene.
1. Invest in an Opportunity Zone
As part of the Tax Cut/Job Act of 2017, Pontiac was awarded 5 Opportunity Zones (1 of which is Downtown Pontiac). By offering capital gains tax relief, the hope is to encourage business leaders to invest in the area. This is a great incentive for developers and business owners looking for new properties, especially when you couple that with the attractive “walking distance” business corridor within the wide-track loop.
2. Join a Supportive Business Community
Pontiac has a tight-knit business community invested in the city’s success. Grab a bite at a local lunch spot and you’ll likely be greeted by a who’s who of local business and Real Estate leaders. Main Street Pontiac, a local chapter of the national downtown revitalization program, brings together a board with members from GM, McLaren Oakland, Dobrusin Law, Oakland University, LocalHop, Riker Properties, DASI Solutions, Flagstar Bank and more. The non-profit is focused on supporting the downtown corridor by focusing on design, organization, promotion and economic vitality.
3. Tap into a Creative Culture
Pontiac is emerging as a truly unique and creative downtown. Numerous breweries, theaters and cafes have all taken up residency within the downtown area and local favorites Erebus Haunted Attraction & Escape Room, Elektricity and The Crofoot continue to bring visitors from neighboring communities. Public art installations including sculptures and murals are sprinkled throughout the quiet downtown. A dedication to art is shared between local businesses and city government. The Pontiac Arts Commission also hosts many events that attract crowds of all ages. Canvas Pontiac & the Art Crawl are two family-friendly events that showcase local talent and creativity to the community.
4. Live in the Hub
Pontiac is located centrally within Oakland County and is snuggled up between two major highways that makes for an extremely accessible downtown. Currently, between commercial and residential properties, nearly 80% of downtown Pontiac is vacant. Most of these properties are move-in ready. Pontiac is a community on the rise. Just last week, it was announced that 25 new lofts are going on the market atop one of the most historic buildings in the city. Whether you are a single millennial, a well-groomed business leader looking for a new start or a college grad looking for your next step, Pontiac could be your answer!
5. Grow with Pontiac
Pontiac is poised for growth, and the business community is ready to expand and welcome new neighbors. There is so much love for this city! Longtime residents have already seen this city at its best and at its worst and are now watching as the city gets back on its feet. It already has so many of the puzzle pieces to be a great place to live and work, they just need to be fit together. The vibe is good, the people are great and the community is empowered. Stay tuned for the next wave of great things to come to downtown Pontiac.
If you are interested in being involved with the growing tech scene in Pontiac, join DASI Solutions us for a Morning Member Mingle with Automation Alley on June 13. Visit neighboring businesses who will open their doors for tours and discussions, showcasing the growth and innovation that has taken over the city in recent years.
Dr. Kasim Korkmaz is the Interim Associate Dean of the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology at Eastern Michigan University, and an Associate Professor of Construction Management and Civil Engineering Programs. Dr. Korkmaz has an extensive research background and conducted several research projects on sustainability and green practices of buildings, bridges, highways, and infrastructures. He is also an expert on transit power cables, and historical buildings. In his academic journey of over 25 years, he has been in charge of all facets of all of the projects including overall experiment design, data collection, and implementation of analysis results. He is currently working on various funded research projects. His research interests include monitoring, evaluating, and assessing existing highways and bridges through various applications and methods for sustainable development. He is also interested in a research program aligned with the global need for sustainable development, exploring ways to achieve a sustainable construction environment on a larger scale and facilitating its implementation in the design, construction, and maintenance processes.
