In only it’s 4th year under the current iteration, the Detroit Policy Conference is in its comparative infancy to the decades old tradition of the Mackinac Policy Conference that serves as the signature event for the Detroit Regional Chamber every year. But while Mackinac has been often lauded as “exclusive” and “inaccessible” by many in the small business and entrepreneurial community, the Detroit Policy Conference takes on a much more inclusive and communal vibe as it brings together business, civic, and government leaders from the Detroit metro region while focusing on issues related directly to the city. That’s no more apparent than this year when the theme and focus will be Detroit’s neighborhoods. The overarching narrative is that while there are great pockets of growth and prosperity in the city, Detroit cannot become the thriving city we are striving to be without healthy neighborhoods and strong business and civic communities throughout the 140 expansive miles of Motown. This years event will offer up opinions and voices of individuals in a variety of Detroit’s neighborhoods as well as those in local government, business, and community development. Here is a sneak peak at just some of what to expect from the speakers and panels at DPC 2016:

A discussion with John Hope Bryant, founder of Operation Hope: Financial literacy is key to providing opportunity young, minority and underprivileged entrepreneurs. We can create a new class of entrepreneur and hundreds of new businesses by focusing on those with the great ideas, but little resources and connecting them with the resources/assets needed to succeed.

Sustaining Neighborhoods: Champions of Revitalization: There are models for neighborhood sustainability in Detroit that can be replicated and customized across the city to help create safe and vibrant neighborhoods. This session showcases the many efforts to transform local communities through neighborhood stabilization, commercial revitalization and  community organizing that increase opportunity and improve quality of life.

Connecting Communities: The Impact of Regional Transit: With the city and region facing chronic regional transit issues, the upcoming Regional Transit Authority millage will significantly impact the trajectory of the city’s revitalization. This session outlines the impact of reliable, comprehensive regional transit on neighborhoods and how the lack of a transit system is thwarting economic recovery.

DPS Spotlight: The Legislative Approach: Quality education is critical to bringing widespread revitalization to neighborhoods throughout the city. This session examines the future of Detroit Public School as the state and city navigate legislation intended to address the longstanding problems faced by poor-performing public schools in Detroit.

In addition to these discussions, looks for remarks from Lauren Hood of the Liv6 Alliance, former Mayor Dave Bing and current Mayor Mike Duggan, as well as a first of it’s kind pitch competition where local Detroit entrepreneurs will have the chance to pitch on stage at The Soundboard for an all-expense paid trip to the Mackinac Policy Conference and compete for a grand prize.

For anyone curious, involved, or  passionate about the city of Detroit, this is a can’t miss event. Hope to see you there

For more information or to register for the Detroit Policy Conference go to: www.detroitchamber.com/dpc