2026 Detroit Policy Conference explores a new leadership era in the region | One Detroit

February 6, 2026

The Detroit Policy Conference, themed "a new leadership era," took place at a new downtown location and featured discussions with prominent regional leaders about Michigan's economic development. Key conversations included Bedrock CEO Jared Fleisher discussing the company's real estate expansion projects, tech entrepreneur André Gudger explaining his decision to move his Maryland technology firm Eccalon to Detroit with plans for significant job creation, and Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation's Dana Williams addressing artificial intelligence's implications for the workforce. Additionally, philanthropic leader Sarida Scott from The Skillman Foundation spoke about the important contribution charitable organizations make to the region's progress.

Who is affected

Detroit Regional Chamber (conference host)
Bedrock and its CEO Jared Fleisher
Eccalon (Maryland-based tech company) and its founder/CEO André Gudger
Potential employees (up to 800 new jobs from Eccalon's relocation)
Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation and its President/CEO Dana Williams
The Skillman Foundation and its Vice President of Program Sarida Scott
Detroit residents and Michigan workforce
Various One Detroit contributors (Nolan Finley, Stephen Henderson, Zoe Clark)

What action is being taken

The Detroit Policy Conference is being hosted by the Detroit Regional Chamber
Bedrock is expanding and developing projects in Detroit
Eccalon is relocating from Maryland to Michigan
One Detroit contributors are conducting interviews with leaders at the conference

Why it matters

This conference and the developments discussed signal significant economic growth opportunities for Detroit and Michigan. The relocation of Eccalon represents substantial job creation potential with up to 800 positions, demonstrating that the region is successfully attracting tech companies and investment. The discussions about AI's future impact on employment and philanthropy's role indicate that regional leaders are proactively addressing both technological transformation and social equity challenges that will shape Detroit's economic landscape.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com