May / June 2010

House of Rock

In 1985, Dan Gilbert invested $5,000 he earned delivering pizzas and created what’s now the nation’s largest online mortgage company. Along the way, he’s invested in more than 20 other...

By R.J. King

Champions of the New Economy 2010

Detroit’s inventive spirit gave birth to the global automotive industry more than a century ago. Since then, thousands of other successful businesses have been created, many of them dominant...

University, Inc.

Seeking to create a new business model to offset a steady drop in state support while holding the line on annual tuition increases, Wayne State University’s emerging science and technology park,...

By Michelle Martinez

Succeeding Granholm

Michigan’s next governor will face extraordinary — and unprecedented — challenges.

By R.J. King

Disaster and Recovery

When adversity strikes, a Sterling Heights firm uses stress-management techniques to soothe anxiety and mitigate tension.

By R.J. King

Mr. Inside and Mr. Outside

A consolidation wave in the residential brokerage industry is paying dividends for a real-estate sales firm in Birmingham.

By R.J. King

Brand of Brothers

Returning to the gourmet-market business their father and uncle pioneered in Detroit more than 35 years ago, Peter and Michael Solaka are out to build a loyal following.

By R.J. King

Seller’s Paradise

A new global wine distribution system developed in northern Michigan promises to increase retailer profit margins, expand selections, and reduce consumer prices.

By R.J. King

Back From the Brink

When the insurance industry decided not to reimburse for body-scan imaging, some facilities closed while others survived by overhauling their business models.

By Dan Calabrese

Revival of the Fittest

Patiently waiting for an economic recovery, northern Michigan’s resorts aren’t just resting on their laurels.

By Norm Sinclair

(Western) Medicine Man

When health-care exec Jim Binson’s art collection started overtaking his company headquarters, he took matters into his own hands and conjured up an authentic homemade remedy.

By R.J. King