University of Michigan Breaks Ground on Center for Innovation

The University of Michigan broke ground in December of 2023 on a $250 million research and education building in Detroit. Designed by KPF, the University of Michigan Center for Innovation (UMCI) will accommodate graduate programs in computer science, robotics, artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, financial technology, and sustainability. The 200,000-sf facility will also foster engagement with area residents by offering professional development classes, certificate courses, and workforce training opportunities. Featuring collaboration spaces for shared discovery with industry partners, the technology-rich structure will include flexible conference and event venues to promote knowledge exchange and the exploration of interdisciplinary synergies. Occupancy is expected in spring of 2027.

The transformative project is part of a $1.5 billion initiative to reimagine The District Detroit as a dynamic live-work ecosystem where corporate and community interests coalesce to drive regional economic growth. UMCI is sited on 2.08 acres of land donated by Olympia Development, a subsidiary of Ilitch Holdings, and funded in part by a $100 million donation from Stephen M. Ross, founder and chairman of Related Companies.