Detroit, Michigan

A city with stories of resilience, of transformation, and of hope.

#EMPOWERED2025

August 5 -7

Detroit, Michigan

A city with stories of resilience, of transformation, and of hope.

#EMPOWERED2025

August 5 -7

EMPOWERED 2025

Takes on a New City with Purpose

We’re beyond excited to announce that EMPOWERED is hitting the road and heading to Detroit, Michigan! After three unforgettable years in Minneapolis, it’s time for a change of scenery—and Detroit, a city that has redefined resilience and transformation, is the perfect next chapter.

With philanthropy playing a key role in its remarkable comeback, there’s no better place to showcase the power of community-driven impact.

EMPOWERED 2025

Takes on a New City with Purpose

We’re beyond excited to announce that EMPOWERED is hitting the road and heading to Detroit, Michigan! After three unforgettable years in Minneapolis, it’s time for a change of scenery—and Detroit, a city that has redefined resilience and transformation, is the perfect next chapter.

With philanthropy playing a key role in its remarkable comeback, there’s no better place to showcase the power of community-driven impact.

OUR PHILANTHROPIC COMMUNITY

Detroit, Michigan

Detroit has seen its share of hard times. But what’s happening there now is nothing short of remarkable. It’s not just about buildings going up or new businesses opening their doors—it’s about the people. The community, driven by passion and belief in a brighter future, has come together in ways that are truly inspiring. Foundations and non-profits have played a key role in that transformation, working tirelessly to ensure the revival touches every corner of the city.

Let’s celebrate that resilience and showcase the power of philanthropy in action. From the revitalization of once-abandoned neighborhoods to the creation of life-changing education programs, Detroit is living proof that when people come together with a shared purpose, they can turn dreams into reality. 

At the heart of this decision is the chance to engage with the remarkable foundations in Detroit—many of them part of the akoyaGO family. These foundations, along with non-profits and businesses, aren’t just rebuilding Detroit; they’re reimagining its future. EMPOWERED 2025 will provide a platform for these local leaders to connect with national philanthropic voices, share ideas, and forge partnerships that elevate their impact even further. 

This work is already transforming Detroit, from affordable housing projects to initiatives improving education access. And Detroit’s story doesn’t just belong to one city—it’s a blueprint for what’s possible anywhere. The impact here has the potential to inspire communities across the country, proving what’s possible when vision and action align. 

At the heart of this decision is the chance to engage with the remarkable foundations in Detroit—many of them part of the akoyaGO family. These foundations, along with non-profits and businesses, aren’t just rebuilding Detroit; they’re reimagining its future. EMPOWERED 2025 will provide a platform for these local leaders to connect with national philanthropic voices, share ideas, and forge partnerships that elevate their impact even further. 

This work is already transforming Detroit, from affordable housing projects to initiatives improving education access. And Detroit’s story doesn’t just belong to one city—it’s a blueprint for what’s possible anywhere. The impact here has the potential to inspire communities across the country, proving what’s possible when vision and action align. 

Let’s not forget the other side of this coin—Detroit still faces significant challenges. Issues like poverty, housing instability, and health disparities persist, and we’re committed to using this conference as a platform to raise awareness and continue the conversation on how philanthropy can tackle these obstacles.

Our goal is to explore what’s been achieved so far and, more importantly, what more can be done to drive lasting change.

THE CITY OF DETROIT

A Cultural Powerhouse

Detroit News Archive, The Detroit News Archives

From its deep connection to the civil rights movement to its undeniable influence on music and the arts, the city’s rich history is palpable on every street corner.

We plan to weave this cultural tapestry into EMPOWERED 2025, celebrating the community-driven efforts that have been instrumental in Detroit’s resurgence. Motown, street art, innovation—it’s all part of the experience.

For us, Detroit represents so much more than a venue. It’s a city that exemplifies the spirit of what EMPOWERED is all about coming together, collaborating, and pushing forward with purpose. We can’t wait to gather in this vibrant city, learn from its journey, and use its story as a model for other urban areas facing similar challenges.

Detroit News Archive, The Detroit News Archives

THE CITY OF DETROIT

A Cultural Powerhouse

Detroit News Archive, The Detroit News Archives

From its deep connection to the civil rights movement to its undeniable influence on music and the arts, the city’s rich history is palpable on every street corner.

We plan to weave this cultural tapestry into EMPOWERED 2025, celebrating the community-driven efforts that have been instrumental in Detroit’s resurgence. Motown, street art, innovation—it’s all part of the experience.

For us, Detroit represents so much more than a venue. It’s a city that exemplifies the spirit of what EMPOWERED is all about coming together, collaborating, and pushing forward with purpose. We can’t wait to gather in this vibrant city, learn from its journey, and use its story as a model for other urban areas facing similar challenges.

#EMPOWERED2025

We hope you’ll join us in 2025 to be part of this next chapter in Detroit’s ongoing story!