IIC26 Program Book
Morning Keynote

9:00 - 9:45 Morning Keynote

Michigan Central: An Economic Engine for Michigan

Featuring Mark de la Vergne

For over three decades, the vacant Michigan Central Station was the symbol for the economic challenges facing Detroit and Michigan. But thanks to an unprecedented investment by Ford Motor Company and a bold vision by their Chair Bill Ford, Michigan Central now stands as a beacon of Detroit’s resilience, both a symbol of its comeback and a promise of its future. This presentation will cover the development of the 30-acre Michigan Central innovation district, the impact that is has already had, and what comes next.