Top 20 Detroit Startups to Watch in 2025

Introduction: Detroit’s Tech Resurgence

Detroit’s startup ecosystem is no longer an underdog story. With more than 542 active startups and over $272 million in total funding, the city ranks #65 globally and #23 in the U.S. for startup activity. Detroit’s renewed energy is anchored by mobility tech, defense innovation, sustainability, and creative SaaS offerings.

This article spotlights the top 20 Detroit startups to watch in 2025, based on funding momentum, industry impact, and visibility in tech rankings.

Top 20 Detroit Startups to Watch

1. StockX – A unicorn e-commerce giant focused on authentic collectibles and streetwear. [Source]
2. Applied Intuition – A $15 billion–valued AV simulation platform building autonomy tools for automotive and defense. [Source]
3. Rivet Work – A construction workforce SaaS platform; raised $14.3 million. [Source]
4. Judy Security – Cybersecurity & password management for SMBs, backed by $12.8 million in Series A funding. [Source]
5. Atomic Industries – Robotics & automation startup raising $17 million to reimagine manufacturing. [Source]
6. CoverTree – Innovating manufactured-home insurance; raised $13 million in Series A. [Source]
7. Metadome.ai – XR-powered AI solutions, fueled by $6.5 million in funding. [Source]
8. Zeck – AI-enhanced platform streamlining board & investor meetings with $7.5 million raised. [Source]
9. Vehya – Automating home/service business maintenance workflows; raised $2.1 million seed. [Source]
10. Airspace Link – Drone-tech startup securing $37 million—leader in urban drone infrastructure. [Source]
11. Canopy – Vehicle security innovator scaling rapidly in Detroit. [Source]
12. FairSide Network – Digital privacy and cybersecurity platform with momentum in Detroit’s tech scene. [Source]
13. Hush – Privacy-centric startup making waves among Detroit’s innovation hubs. [Source]
14. Floyd – AI-powered analytics for supply chain and demand forecasting. [Source]
15. Autobooks – Fintech platform serving SMEs and accelerating adoption across Detroit.[Source]
16. Quikly – Engagement & rewards SaaS is gaining traction with Detroit businesses.[Source]
17. Lineage Logistics – Advanced logistics firm that had a $4.44 billion IPO in 2024.[Source]
18. OneStream Software – Enterprise performance management platform that went public in 2024.[Source]
19. Signal Advisors – A financial advising tech platform disrupting wealth management.[Source]
20. GreenLancer – A solar energy marketplace connecting installers with engineers and designers.[Source]

Why These Startups Matter for Detroit’s Future

Detroit’s revival as a tech hub is real—with a $700 million Ford investment in innovation and over 100 startups now operating out of Michigan Central’s Newlab.

Startups driving mobility (Applied Intuition), reindustrialization (Hadrian, Chariot Defense), and digital services (Autobooks, Floyd) demonstrate Detroit’s expanding footprint in climate, fintech, and defense sectors. These companies aren’t just building products—they’re redefining Detroit’s identity in a global tech landscape.

How to Stay Connected to Detroit’s Startup Scene

• Attend industry events like Reindustrialize Summit—or track Newlab’s expanding innovation network.
• Monitor ecosystem reports from GrowthMentor, StartupBlink, and Seedtable to track momentum.
• Follow local tech coverage in Crain’s, DBusiness, and national outlets spotlighting Detroit’s resurgence.

Conclusion: Detroit’s Startup Momentum Is Just Beginning

From AI and defense to SaaS and clean tech, Detroit’s 2025 startup landscape is diverse, ambitious, and investor-fueled. The Top 20 Detroit startups to watch in 2025 provide a snapshot of this revitalization—demonstrating the city’s potential to lead in mobility tech, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth.