Posted on November 6, 2009

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Knight Foundation Awards $5 Million to Boost Detroit Economy

The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation has announced grants totaling more than $5 million to organizations working to increase job training, expand public Internet access, and strengthen the creative sector in the metro Detroit area.

Recipients include the Detroit and Southeast Michigan Fund for Innovative Workforce Solutions, which was awarded more than $1 million to train workers for skilled jobs in the region's health and green sectors; the Detroit Public Library, which will receive $866,000 to expand free Internet access at the Parkman Branch library; and the Detroit Connected Community Initiative, which was awarded $810,000 to provide high-speed Internet access to two low-income Detroit neighborhoods. In addition, to help transform the city's newly designated Creative Corridor into an economic engine and tourist destination, Knight awarded nearly $1.1 million to the Cranbrook Educational Community, more than $1 million to the College for Creative Studies, and $500,000 to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.

"A local economy that attracts talented professionals and fuels growth is key to Detroit's future," said Knight Foundation president and CEO Alberto Ibargüen. "We hope the Creative Corridor will help unleash Detroit's creative energy and build a new economic foundation that will help the city thrive."

“Community Investments Aim to Spur a New Detroit.” John S. and James L. Knight Foundation Press Release 11/04/09.

Primary Subject: Community Improvement/Development
Secondary Subject(s): Arts and Culture
Location(s): Detroit, Michigan

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