Using Art to Attract Business Activity

Growing Entrepreneurship and Supporting Business Growth are among the 11 broad-based economic development strategies for our region included in Partnering for Prosperity, Southeast Michigan’s economic development strategy. At a SEMCOG University workshop this summer, SEMCOG members discussed the importance of supporting businesses in their communities, spanning several sectors. Presenters highlighted the ways in which their communities have been working collaboratively with entrepreneurs to promote an environment of innovation, community-building, and new business opportunities.

East Downtown Dearborn’s Arts and Culture District

Barry Murray, Director of Economic and Community Development with the City of Dearborn discussed how his city’s historic growth pattern has resulted in two downtowns along Michigan Avenue – one in the eastern portion of the city and the other to the west. West Downtown Dearborn is home to the city’s Entertainment and Tourism District. The eastern portion features the city’s growing Arts & Culture District.



Home to the Arab American National Museum and several art galleries, the Arts & Cultural District has become a draw for entrepreneurs. Recently, the national organization Artspace has located to this area of Dearborn with a mission of providing affordable space for artists. Artspace is housed in the historic Dearborn City Hall campus.



A place that was no longer efficient for modern governmental services, the City Hall Artspace Lofts campus has been transformed into a mixed-use setting for artistic endeavors.

Residential live/work units have been filled, and the completed development will include work studios, office space, and galleries.

The community is looking to leverage these new amenities to encourage additional business investment.

This case study helped participants understand innovative ways in which local governments can help encourage entrepreneurs and new investment. In the ensuing conversation, participants discussed the ways in which art can positively impact their communities.