Mark Cuban and Wyclef Jean to Headline Detroit Summit on the Future of Cities
In a move that underscores Detroit’s growing influence as a hub for urban innovation, the city will host the Global Citizen NOW: Detroit summit on July 10, 2025. The event, organized by the international anti-poverty nonprofit Global Citizen, will feature headliners Mark Cuban, the billionaire entrepreneur and investor, and Wyclef Jean, the Grammy-winning musician and member of The Fugees. Acclaimed chef Marcus Samuelsson will also join the lineup, bringing his expertise in culinary innovation and community empowerment.
This marks the first time Global Citizen has brought its influential conference series to a U.S. city outside of New York. The choice of Detroit is no coincidence. Once synonymous with urban decline, the city has emerged as a beacon of resilience and transformation. Its selection as the summit’s host reflects its ongoing revitalization and positions it as a model for urban renewal.
Detroit’s journey from industrial collapse to rebirth is well-documented. The city’s bankruptcy in 2013 and the subsequent decline of its auto industry left deep scars. However, in recent years, Detroit has become a symbol of hope and reinvention. Its downtown area, once eerily quiet, now buzzes with new businesses, restaurants, and cultural attractions. This transformation is largely driven by targeted investments and a commitment to sustainable development.
“That’s such an important priority for me and for the organization because that’s a place that’s analyzing the future of cities,” said Hugh Evans, CEO of Global Citizen, emphasizing Detroit’s role in shaping urban landscapes. “And what do cities mean? How do we invest in cities?” Evans highlighted that the Detroit summit will be a cornerstone of Global Citizen’s strategy for cities, focusing on sustainable development, technological innovation, and community engagement.
The summit’s agenda is ambitious. It aims to address the challenges posed by rapid population movement and technological changes that are reshaping cities worldwide. A central focus will be the importance of investing in young people to drive economic prosperity, build accessible infrastructure, and ensure food security. These themes are particularly relevant for Detroit, where youth empowerment and equitable development are key to its continued growth.
The event is being presented in partnership with Bedrock, a real estate firm that has been instrumental in Detroit’s redevelopment. Through the acquisition and renovation of downtown properties, Bedrock has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the city’s core. Its involvement in the summit underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in driving urban renewal.
By spotlighting Detroit, Global Citizen hopes to showcase how targeted investments and innovative approaches can tackle the complex challenges facing modern cities. The summit is expected to galvanize political and business commitments while highlighting Detroit’s role as a case study in overcoming adversity. As the city continues to rebuild, it serves as a powerful reminder that urban decline is not inevitable—and that with the right strategies, any city can thrive.
Global Citizen NOW: Detroit Summit to Tackle Urban Challenges with Innovation and Investment
Mark Cuban, known for his entrepreneurial acumen and investment strategies, will bring his insights on fostering economic growth through innovation. Wyclef Jean, a global advocate for social justice, will highlight the role of arts and culture in revitalizing urban communities. Marcus Samuelsson, celebrated for his culinary ventures and commitment to community development, will discuss how food systems can be leveraged to promote sustainability and equity.
The selection of Detroit as the summit’s host city is a strategic move to highlight its remarkable transformation. Once a symbol of industrial decline, Detroit has become a living laboratory for urban renewal. The city’s journey from bankruptcy to rebirth offers valuable lessons for other cities facing similar challenges. Its revitalization efforts, driven by public-private partnerships and community engagement, serve as a blueprint for sustainable urban development.
Hugh Evans, CEO of Global Citizen, has emphasized the organization’s commitment to reimagining the future of cities. “Cities are the engines of progress,” Evans remarked. “They are where innovation happens, where cultures intersect, and where solutions to global challenges are born.” Evans highlighted Detroit’s unique position as a city that has faced significant adversity but is now thriving through targeted investments and a focus on equity.
The summit will delve into critical issues such as population migration, technological disruption, and the importance of youth empowerment. By addressing these topics, the event aims to inspire actionable commitments from global leaders. A key focus will be on how investing in young people can create a ripple effect, driving economic growth, improving infrastructure, and ensuring access to essential resources like food and education.
Bedrock, the real estate firm behind much of Detroit’s downtown revitalization, has been a key partner in bringing the summit to the city. The firm’s efforts to restore historic buildings and create vibrant public spaces have been instrumental in attracting new businesses and residents. Bedrock’s involvement underscores the critical role of private-sector investment in urban renewal and the importance of collaboration between businesses, governments, and nonprofits.
Global Citizen’s decision to host the summit in Detroit sends a powerful message about the potential for cities to transform and thrive. By shining a spotlight on Detroit’s successes and challenges, the event aims to inspire other cities to adopt innovative strategies for addressing urbanization’s complexities. As Detroit continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the power of resilience, collaboration, and strategic investment in shaping a brighter future for urban communities worldwide.
Conclusion
The Global Citizen NOW: Detroit summit represents a pivotal moment in the conversation about the future of cities. By bringing together visionaries like Mark Cuban, Wyclef Jean, and Marcus Samuelsson, the event will explore innovative solutions to urban challenges, with Detroit serving as a powerful case study. The city’s transformation from industrial decline to a beacon of resilience offers valuable lessons for urban renewal worldwide. As a platform for dialogue and action, the summit aims to inspire global leaders to invest in sustainable development, youth empowerment, and equitable growth. Detroit’s story is one of hope and reinvention, proving that with strategic investment and collaboration, any city can thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the purpose of the Global Citizen NOW: Detroit summit?
The summit aims to address urban challenges through innovation and investment, with a focus on sustainable development, technological innovation, and community engagement.
Why was Detroit chosen as the host city for the summit?
Detroit was chosen for its remarkable transformation from industrial decline to a model of urban renewal. Its story highlights the potential for cities to overcome adversity through targeted investments and collaboration.
Who are the headliners of the summit?
The summit will feature Mark Cuban, Wyclef Jean, and Marcus Samuelsson, each bringing unique perspectives on entrepreneurship, social justice, and community development.
How can I attend the Global Citizen NOW: Detroit summit?
Details about tickets and registration will be announced closer to the event date. Stay tuned for updates on how to participate.
What are the key themes of the summit?
The summit will focus on population migration, technological disruption, youth empowerment, and the importance of investing in young people to drive economic prosperity and equitable development.
What is the role of Bedrock in the summit?
Bedrock, a real estate firm instrumental in Detroit’s revitalization, is a key partner in bringing the summit to the city. It underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in urban renewal.
What is the expected outcome of the summit?
The event aims to galvanize political and business commitments, inspire actionable solutions, and showcase Detroit as a blueprint for sustainable urban development.