Top 5 Detroit Startups to Watch in 2026
Detroit's startup scene shows a mix of industries, from online retail to financial news. This includes the online marketplace StockX, which has raised $690M.
The city is also home to companies working on drone management and beauty products.
Below is our list of 5 Detroit startups worth keeping an eye on.
Failory's Top 5 Picks
StockX operates a live marketplace that brings stock market mechanics to high-demand consumer goods. The platform is most recognized for its bid and ask system, which sets the price for authentic sneakers, electronics, and collectibles.
| Year Founded | 2015 |
| Founders | Chris Kaufman, Dan Gilbert, Greg Schwartz, Josh Luber |
| Funding Amount | $690M |
| Startup Size | Large Team (251-1,000) |
| Last Funding Status | Secondary Market |
| Top Investors | General Atlantic, Battery Ventures, Tiger Global Management, SV Angel, Sands Capital Ventures |
Hush builds a cyberprivacy service that helps companies reduce their exposure to social engineering and phishing attacks. Their AI-powered platform is designed to protect employees at all levels from digital risks.
| Year Founded | 2021 |
| Founders | Karthik Nallamothu, Mykolas Rambus |
| Funding Amount | $6.1M |
| Startup Size | Lean Team (11-50) |
| Last Funding Status | Seed |
| Top Investors | Collab Capital, Greycroft, Google for Startups, Detroit Venture Partners, Annox Capital |
Benzinga delivers timely financial news and analysis through its media service designed for investors and traders. The platform provides actionable insights and data to help users make more informed decisions in the market.
| Year Founded | 2010 |
| Founders | Jason Raznick |
| Funding Amount | $4.5M |
| Startup Size | Mid-Size Team (51-250) |
| Last Funding Status | Venture Round |
| Top Investors | Lightbank, WorldQuant Ventures LLC, Chris Thomas |
Airspace Link develops a platform that connects drone pilots with aviation authorities for flight authorizations. Their FAA-approved system provides the digital infrastructure needed for safe and compliant drone operations in controlled airspace.
| Year Founded | 2018 |
| Founders | Ana Healander, Daniel Bradshaw, Michael Healander |
| Funding Amount | $41M |
| Startup Size | Mid-Size Team (51-250) |
| Last Funding Status | Series B |
| Top Investors | Techstars, Morningside, Matchstick Ventures, Ludlow Ventures, Indicator Ventures |
The Lip Bar develops a line of vegan and cruelty-free cosmetics that are easy to use and inclusive of all skin tones. While they started with a focus on vibrant lipsticks, the brand now offers a full range of makeup to challenge conventional beauty standards.
| Year Founded | 2011 |
| Founders | Melissa Butler |
| Funding Amount | $6.7M |
| Startup Size | Lean Team (11-50) |
| Last Funding Status | Undisclosed |
| Top Investors | Endeavor, Pendulum Holdings, Bossa Invest, Fearless Fund, Michigan Rise |
