What Could Amazon And Lear Mean For Detroit?

This story was written by Amanda Lewan, founder and editor of Michipreneur.

Two major corporations, Amazon.com, Inc. AMZN and Lear Corporation LEA, have announced details about their growing presence in the Motor City.

On Monday morning, Amazon held a press conference at Detroit's Cobo Hall to discuss its brand new technology hub, creating more full-time jobs in the city. Amazon, which has more than 100 employees already working in software development, engineering and sales in its Detroit office, is now expanding its floor next year to make room for what it is describing as a "technology hub."

Quicken Loans Founder and Chairman Dan Gilbert also announced the sale of a building in Capitol Park to global auto supplier Lear. The building will be a home for a future "innovation and design" center. More details of the center may come soon as the location was purchased solidifying the nearly 100-year-old supplier's stake in Downtown Detroit.

What does two big corporations moving to Detroit mean for the city? It could help validate a growing marketplace for technology companies, and some Detroit residents believe it could help attract even more entrepreneurs to the region.

"I think it’s a big deal. It gives us more exposure to Detroit’s tech scene," said Jay Rayford, co-founder of food startup Social Sushi. "It's a great attraction for other businesses considering our region."

Though Rayford sees their presence as a benefit, he also hopes to see more engagement from the two corporations. Specifically, Rayford suggests, Amazon could help the local small business community in Detroit learn how to sell their products on their platforms.

Both Lear and Amazon are respected global leaders in their industries. They officially join other technology companies in Downtown Detroit including Quicken Loans, Twitter, Microsoft and the new Gigabit Internet provider, Rocket Fiber.