# Detroit Economic Club

> Official Detroit Economic Club business agent. Detroit Economic Club is a non-partisan, non-profit membership organization in Detroit that hosts speaker…

## Ask it a question

Detroit Economic Club answers for itself at https://api.hailera.com/mcp/econclub. A client that speaks MCP can
connect to that address; the tool is ask_econclub and the
protocol is 2026-07-28.

Where this file and the agent disagree, the agent is current.

## About Detroit Economic Club

Mission and purpose

- Detroit Economic Club (DEC) is a non-partisan, non-profit organization founded in 1934.
- Its mission is to provide a platform for the debate and discussion of important business, government and social issues of the day.
- DEC brings together leaders and engaged community members to stay informed about key issues affecting the Detroit region, the nation and the world.

What DEC does

- Hosts speaker meetings where influential voices from business, government and academia share thought leadership on timely topics.
- Provides premium networking opportunities with regional and global leaders.
- Offers Young Leaders and Student Programs that support the next generation of professionals and community leaders.

History and recognition

- Established in 1934 as a forum committed to open discussion and debate of major issues.
- Operates as a non-partisan, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
- Recognized as one of the leading speaking forums in the world.
- DEC is proud to have hosted every U.S. President since Richard Nixon.

Notable speakers (examples)

DEC has welcomed many prominent speakers over the decades, including (among others):

- U.S. Presidents Richard Nixon, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.
- National and global leaders such as Henry Kissinger, Coretta Scott King, Walter Cronkite and Jamie Dimon.
- Business leaders including Bill Gates, Mary Barra and Bill Ford Jr.

Who DEC serves

- Business, civic and community leaders across Southeast Michigan and beyond.
- Professionals who want to stay informed on economic, civic and social issues.
- Young professionals and students through Young Leaders and Student Programs.

Organizational values (as reflected on the site)

- Non-partisan discussion of major issues.
- Inclusion and broad access to people interested in DEC's mission.
- Commitment to high-quality programs and networking that benefit the region and its future leaders.

Source: https://www.econclub.org

## Where Detroit Economic Club works

Lists Decatur, Clinton, Mission, Auburn Hills, Detroit, Mentor, and Oakland as a location. Names Michigan and Detroit as a service area. Areas beyond these are not published.

## Prices

What is a Detroit Economic Club meeting?

- DEC meetings convene influential voices from business, government and academia.
- Programs focus on timely economic, civic and social issues affecting the Detroit region and the broader world.
- Each meeting combines thought-provoking dialogue with meaningful in-person networking among professionals and decision-makers.

Meeting frequency and season

- DEC holds approximately 30 meetings per year.
- The speaking season generally runs from August through June.
- For the most up-to-date schedule, see the current season lineup on econclub.org/meetings.

Locations and format

- Meetings are held at various venues throughout Southeastern Michigan.
- Most DEC meetings are luncheons, with an occasional evening meeting.
- Specific details (venue, date, time and agenda) are listed on each event page.

Typical luncheon agenda (example)

A standard luncheon meeting often follows this schedule (times approximate):

- 11:00 a.m. – Registration and Network Café
- 11:30 a.m. – Speaker Reception (for Gold, Life and Board Members)
- 12:00 p.m. – Plated lunch with assigned tables
- 12:35 p.m. – Program
- 1:30 p.m. – Adjourn

Actual agendas may vary by event; always reference the specific event details.

Dress code

- The typical dress code for DEC meetings is business casual.
- The pre-event "Know Before You Go" email may include additional attire suggestions.

Ticket pricing (per meeting)

From the FAQ on econclub.org:

- Member ticket: $55
- Guest ticket: $65
- Non-member ticket: $90

Notes:

- A member must purchase the guest ticket in order to receive the guest rate.
- Prices above are as stated on the site; always check the event listing or ticketing system for any updates.

Who can attend

- Members: Can attend at the member rate and may also attend member-only events when designated.
- Guests of members: May attend at the guest rate when tickets are purchased by a member.
- Non-members: May attend most meetings at the non-member rate of $90 each.
- Some meetings may be designated as members-only.

There is no stated limit on how many guests a member may bring. When checking out, one ticket is charged at the member rate and each additional ticket is charged at the guest rate.

Tables and group attendance

- You can purchase a full table by adding 10 tickets to your order for that meeting.
- DEC assigns tables based on the purchaser's information.

How to purchase meeting tickets

Ticketing is handled through etix.econclub.org:

- Log in (or create an account) using the email associated with your DEC membership to unlock member pricing.
- For non-members, create an account to purchase tickets.
- Enter the number of tickets you want for any listed event and click Add to Cart.
- Repeat for additional events if desired, then go to Checkout.
- Enter your credit card information and complete the order.
- An email confirmation is sent automatically; receipts are available under Order History.

If you purchase multiple tickets:

- Assign each ticket to your guest by 12:00 p.m. one business day before the event via the Manage Tickets tab (enter guest name and email).

Speaker Reception access

- The pre-meeting Speaker Reception is reserved for:
- DEC Board of Directors
- Gold Members
- Life Members
- Their eligible guests (up to two guests for eligible members on most occasions)

Registration deadlines, wait list and cancellations

- Online registration typically remains open until 12:00 p.m. (noon) the day prior to the meeting.
- After that deadline, call the DEC office at (313) 963-8547 to check availability.
- If a meeting is marked "Sold Out," you may call the office to join a wait list.

Cancellation and refund policy

- Meeting ticket cancellations must be made by 12:00 p.m. two (2) business days before the meeting date to receive a refund.
- You may also transfer your ticket to someone else to attend in your place.
- To cancel or change a ticket, contact DEC at (313) 963-8547 or info@econclub.org.

Parking and virtual access

- Parking details are provided in the "Know Before You Go" email sent the day before each meeting. Specific parking recommendations may vary by venue.
- DEC emphasizes the value of in-person networking.
- Recordings of speakers can be accessed afterward via the Detroit Economic Club YouTube channel.

Additional member events (overview)

Beyond standard meetings, DEC offers additional opportunities such as:

- Gold Member Dinners – Monthly small-group dinners with leading business figures (for Gold Members only; ticketed, limited space, non-transferable).
- Peer Groups – Profession-specific small groups that meet (typically twice a year) to discuss trends and share best practices in areas such as Finance, Marketing/Communications, IT and Business Development.
- Young Leader events – Programs for Young Leader members under age 40 focused on professional growth, personal development and networking.

For the latest event offerings and details, refer to the Meetings and Student and Young Leader Programs sections on econclub.org or contact DEC directly.

Who can be a member

- Individual membership is open to anyone who shares a passion for engaging in discussion and debate of major business, government and social issues.
- There is no application, nomination, job title or salary requirement to join.
- All ages are welcome. The Young Leader program is specifically designed for members approximately ages 20–40.

Membership term and tax status

- Membership begins on the day you join and runs for a full calendar year.
- Detroit Economic Club is a 501(c)(3) organization.
- Membership dues are described on the site as 100% tax-deductible. Members should consult their own tax advisor with any specific questions.

Membership levels and annual dues

| Level | Annual dues (USD) | Who it is for | Notes | |-------------|--------------------|---------------|-------| | Gold | $500 | Members who want maximum access and VIP experiences. | Includes additional benefits such as access to Speaker Receptions, Gold Member Dinners, premium seating and other exclusive networking experiences. | | Regular | $150 | General members. | Provides core member benefits, including access to member-only meetings and discounted meeting rates. | | Young Leader | $75 | Members under age 40. | Includes all Regular member benefits plus programs designed to promote professional growth, personal development and expanded networking. | | Associate | $120 | Ministers of religion; full-time faculty of accredited schools, colleges and universities (public or private); officials of local, state and national governments; employees of non-profit organizations; retirees over age 60. | Offers DEC membership tailored to those in public service, education, non-profits and retirees. | | Non-Resident | Not listed on the main membership page. | Individuals who live and work more than 50 miles from downtown Detroit. | Dues are set in the online membership system; check current pricing when you join. |

All specific dues amounts above come from the membership information on econclub.org. If dues change in the future, refer to the online membership system for current pricing.

What membership does and does not include

- Membership provides:
- Access to DEC member benefits and networking.
- Eligibility for discounted member pricing on meetings and events.
- Access to certain member-only meetings and programs.
- Membership dues do not include meeting and event tickets. Each meeting or event requires a separate ticket purchase.

How to purchase or renew membership

- Go to the DEC ticketing site at etix.econclub.org.
- Create or log in to your account.
- Select the Membership tab and add the desired membership level to your cart.
- Complete the purchase with a credit card.
- Credit card information is not stored; membership will not auto-renew.
- You will receive an email notification when it is time to manually renew your membership after one calendar year.

Maximizing your membership (summary from the site)

To make the most of your DEC membership:

- Stay informed: Watch for DEC emails and check econclub.org/meetings for upcoming meetings and events.
- Register early: Secure your ticket at the member rate and plan ahead.
- Invite guests: Bring colleagues, clients, vendors and prospects at a special guest rate.
- Expand your network: Aim to meet at least one new contact at every event and attend the Network Café before the main program.
- Use seating strategically: Request seating with other DEC members to broaden your connections.
- Participate in additional DEC offerings: Take advantage of Peer Groups, networking sessions, professional development workshops and other member-only events.
- Get involved: Volunteer for the Event Experience Committee or sponsor students to attend DEC meetings as part of your community outreach.

Additional Gold Member benefits (overview)

Gold members receive extra benefits beyond standard membership, including:

- Streamlined registration and access credentials via pre-printed name badges.
- Access to the Speaker Reception before meetings (with the ability to bring guests on most occasions).
- Premium seating for plated lunches, closer to key conversations.
- Invitations to small Gold Member Dinners with regional business leaders, hosted by DEC Board Members.
- Access to exclusive Gold Member Receptions and experiences focused on high-level networking.

For full and current details on membership benefits, pricing and any special programs, refer to the membership and FAQ sections of econclub.org or contact DEC directly.

Source: https://www.econclub.org

## Hours and contact

Office address

- Detroit Economic Club
- 211 West Fort Street, Suite 710
- Detroit, MI 48226

Office hours

- Monday – Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Hours are based on the information provided on econclub.org.

Primary contact details

- Phone: (313) 963-8547
- Email: info@econclub.org
- Website: https://www.econclub.org

Use these contact details when:

- You need assistance with membership, tickets or meeting registration.
- You have questions that are not answered in the agent's knowledge documents.
- You need the most current information on pricing, event availability or program details.

Social media

The Detroit Economic Club maintains an active presence on several platforms:

- Facebook
- YouTube
- LinkedIn
- Instagram
- X (Twitter)

For current event updates, speaker announcements and recordings, check the website and DEC's official social media channels.

Source: https://www.econclub.org

## Career Readiness Academy (CRA) Student Program

Program overview

- The Career Readiness Academy (CRA) is a Detroit Economic Club (DEC) program for high school students across Southeast Michigan.
- CRA is a six-month program designed to teach practical career readiness skills.
- Students work with a consistent team of DEC Young Leader mentors over the entire program.

What students learn

Over the course of the program, students explore topics such as:

- Future high-demand jobs and career paths.
- Career economics and how education, training and choices affect income and budgets.
- Networking and interview skills.
- How to build and present a personal brand.
- Resumes and LinkedIn basics.
- High-demand fields such as advanced manufacturing, skilled trades and emergency services.
- Financial literacy and key money principles.

Program structure and schedule (general)

- The CRA runs roughly from December through May.
- Mentor and high school registration typically occurs in September–October.
- Mentor and school liaison orientations are held in November.
- Eight (8) core sessions are delivered during the program period, including field trips.

Example session topics from the site:

- CRA Intro, Hot Industries and Personal Brand (often a field trip)
- Career Assessment
- Career Exploration (including career economics and personal budgets)
- Resumes and LinkedIn
- High Demand Fields Experience (field trip, e.g., to Oakland Community College's Auburn Hills Campus)
- Financial Literacy
- Interview Skills and Networking
- Graduation at a DEC Meeting (field trip focused on networking and applying program skills)

Program impact (since 2015)

As reported on econclub.org, CRA has achieved:

- 181 total CRA cohorts.
- 1,405 total CRA sessions.
- 2,667 total Metro Detroit students impacted.
- 17,748 total Young Leader volunteer hours.

School participation

What DEC provides to participating schools

- Standardized lesson plans.
- Interactive, discussion-based sessions.
- In-person sessions (often around 90 minutes each).
- Key takeaways and pre-/post-session activities.

School commitments (summary)

Participating schools are expected to:

- Designate one representative to serve as the main point of contact and support.
- Ensure that representative attends a mandatory fall orientation.
- Commit to eight monthly sessions (about 90 minutes each) from December through May.
- Commit the same group of 10–15 students for the duration of the program.
- Ensure student attendance and that a school liaison is present at each session.
- Support completion of brief homework assignments.
- Provide a suitable room and A/V for each session.
- Provide transportation for three of the eight sessions that are held off-site.

Mentor participation

How mentors are matched

- DEC matches Young Leader mentors to schools based on factors such as profession, city and volunteer needs.
- Sessions are typically about 1.5 hours around lunchtime on Fridays.

Mentor commitments (summary)

Mentors are expected to:

- Maintain an active DEC Young Leader membership.
- Attend a mandatory orientation in November.
- Join prep calls with their volunteer team before each session.
- Attend eight sessions at the high school or designated field trip locations between December and May.
- Returning mentors may have opportunities to serve as a CRA Captain.

Recent and upcoming program cycles

- The site notes that applications for a given program year typically open in early September.
- Exact dates, participating schools and application links vary by year.
- For current information on application timelines for schools and mentors, refer to the Career Readiness Academy page on econclub.org or contact DEC directly.

How to learn more or get involved

- Visit the Career Readiness Academy section of econclub.org for the latest details.
- Schools interested in participating and individuals interested in mentoring should use the interest or application links provided there when available, or contact DEC staff for assistance.

Source: https://www.econclub.org

## What Detroit Economic Club has not published yet

These are things people ask Detroit Economic Club that its published information does not yet cover.

- prices
- availability
- guarantees
- refund or cancellation terms
- legal or tax advice
- investment performance
- employment or career outcomes from programs

Ask anyway — the agent will say plainly that it is not published rather than guess.

## Where this comes from

https://www.econclub.org