The next generation of Detroit entrepreneurs, developers, and innovators is building the future through the Apple Developer Academy (ADA), and the Gilbert Family Foundation is helping make that future possible.

Last week, the ADA celebrated its fifth graduating class – 200 Detroiters who now have the technology and business development skills to set them up for success in cutting-edge careers.

The Detroit campus is the only Apple Developer Academy in North America, and offers a free, intensive nine-month experience designed to meet learners where they are – regardless of prior technical experience. More than 70 percent of learners who begin the program complete it, gaining practical skills that prepare them for careers in technology and entrepreneurship. Since launching in 2021 in partnership with Apple and Michigan State University, the ADA has supported more than 1,800 learners through free programs focused on app development, coding, design, entrepreneurship, project management, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.

“Talent has never been the problem in this city, access has,” said Linda Nosegbe, Director of Economic Mobility at Gilbert Family Foundation. “This investment in the Apple Developer Academy exists to close that gap, and what we are building here is not just an educational program. It is long term infrastructure for the next generation of founders, builders, and leaders.”

This investment aligns with our broader commitment to expanding economic opportunity in Detroit by investing in people, innovation, and entrepreneurship. By removing financial barriers and providing learners with hands-on, real-world training, the program equips Detroiters with the skills, networks, and flexible resources needed to succeed in today’s economy — whether that means joining the tech workforce, launching a startup, or creating innovative technology solutions for their communities. ADA grads are well-positioned to take advantage of the unprecedented opportunity here in the city: Detroit is one of the fastest growing tech hubs in the United States – and has been recognized as the number one emerging startup ecosystem in the country.

As Nosegbe stated, “Dreams are free and talent is everywhere however opportunity is not, opportunity has to be built. That is exactly what this Academy does,” she continued, “We made a bet on Detroit five years ago, and every single person in that graduating class is proof that we won.”

We are proud to continue our investment – creating flexible pathways for Detroit talent to access high-growth careers, launch businesses, and strengthen the city we call home.