Groundbreakers: Real Talks from Detroit's Builders

Hear real stories from developers actively building in Detroit and gain practical insights for every stage of your journey.
About this Event

Join READ for Groundbreakers, an evening of honest conversations with developers who are actively building across Detroit. Through firsthand stories from the field, our speakers will share what it really takes to navigate the development process, the decisions that shaped their projects, and the lessons they've learned while developing in one of the country's most dynamic real estate markets.

Whether you're preparing for your first development or leading your twentieth project, you'll leave with practical insights, fresh perspectives, and meaningful connections that can help shape your next opportunity.

What You'll Hear

Our speakers will pull back the curtain on the moments that shaped their careers, including:

• The project that changed everything

• The biggest challenge they didn't see coming

• A mistake that became their greatest lesson

• How they're navigating today's development landscape

• What they wish they knew before getting started

• One piece of advice for the next generation of developers

Leave With...

✔ A new perspective on the development process

✔ Lessons you can apply to your own projects

✔ Connections with Detroit's development community

✔ Greater confidence in navigating development challenges

✔ Inspiration from developers actively shaping Detroit

Who Should Attend?

Whether you're just getting started or have years of experience, this event is designed for anyone interested in real estate development.

Perfect for:

• Emerging Developers

• Experienced Developers

• Investors

• Lenders

• Contractors

• Architects

• Engineers

• Community Development Professionals

• Students interested in development

• Industry Partners

Why Attend?

The best lessons in development don't always happen in the boardroom.

They happen during financing delays, construction challenges, unexpected setbacks, difficult negotiations, and the countless decisions made along the way.

Groundbreakers gives you a rare opportunity to hear those stories directly from developers who are actively building in Detroit today.

Event Details

📅 Date
Thursday, August 13, 2026

🕕 Time
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Networking begins at 5:30 PM

📍 Location
Detroit People's Food Co-op

About READ

The Real Estate Association of Developers (READ) is committed to cultivating the next generation of developers, connecting industry professionals to resources and opportunities, and advocating for equitable development throughout Detroit and beyond.