This Month's Latest Tech News in Detroit, MI - Thursday July 31st 2025 Edition

Detroit is rapidly advancing as a powerhouse in AI and tech innovation in 2025, led by local companies like Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions (AITX) and its subsidiary Robotic Assistance Devices (RAD).

AITX recently expanded RADCam™, its AI-powered home and rental property security device, with new features such as customizable AI escalation levels, streamlined Apple and Google Single Sign-On, and enhanced event logging, now broadly available on Amazon to improve accessibility (Newsfile Corp press release on RADCam updates).

Alongside product advances, AITX supports transparency and growth through its participation in the new OTCID Market, aligning with strict financial and operational disclosure standards (AITX announcement on OTCID market support).

Detroit also fosters cybersecurity expertise, hosting the upcoming 5th Annual Detroit Cybersecurity Summit on August 19th, spotlighting AI-driven security strategies, threat mitigation, and emerging risks (Details of the 2025 Detroit Cybersecurity Summit).

For those inspired to enter this thriving ecosystem, Nucamp offers practical AI and tech training bootcamps - such as the 15-week AI Essentials for Work or the 30-week Solo AI Tech Entrepreneur - providing hands-on skills to leverage AI tools and launch startups, preparing learners to contribute to Detroit's vibrant tech future.

Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (AITX), based in Detroit, reported a record-breaking fiscal year 2025 with total annual revenue reaching $6.13 million - an impressive 275% increase compared to $2.23 million in FY 2024.

This growth was propelled by the successful rollout of their fourth-generation AI platform and the launch of SARA™ (Speaking Autonomous Responsive Agent), key innovations driving recurring revenue streams.

AITX's subsidiary, Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), continues to transform the $50 billion U.S. security services industry by offering AI-driven Solutions-as-a-Service that reduce security costs by 35% to 80% through autonomous stationary and mobile robotic products.

The company's gross profit surged 562% to $3.74 million, aided by improved operational efficiencies and a strong sales pipeline including over 35 Fortune 500 companies poised for multiple reorders.

Despite current unprofitability, strategic debt restructuring lowered liabilities from $21.7 million to $7.6 million and improved the current ratio from 0.17 to 0.66, positioning AITX for future stability.

The company projects FY 2026 revenue between $12 million and $18 million, aiming for several months of positive operational cash flow and targeting a NASDAQ uplisting between 2027 and 2029.

CEO Steve Reinharz stated,

“We are looking for fiscal 2026 to finish with revenues in the $12 million to $18 million range, as well as produce several months of positive operational cash flow.”

For more details on AITX's transformative AI security solutions and financial performance, visit their official 10-K filing of AITX, the company's FY 2025 revenue announcement, and the comprehensive financial analysis at StockTitan's detailed AITX report.

Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), a subsidiary of Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (AITX), is substantially expanding its AI-powered security deployments in Detroit and beyond with a surge in production and new strategic installations.

RAD recently announced an increase in the production of its ROAMEO Gen 4 autonomous mobile security robots from an initial 10 to 50 units to meet heightened demand during a nationwide demo tour, with plans to scale up to 100 deployments over the next year, potentially adding $3-$4 million in annual recurring revenue.

The ROAMEO Gen 4 is a 6-foot-9-inch, 1,600-pound security robot featuring AI-powered threat detection, autonomous navigation, obstacle avoidance, and self-recharging capabilities, designed to supplement or replace traditional human guards across corporate campuses, public spaces, healthcare institutions, and critical infrastructure sites.

Additionally, RAD is deploying its RIO™ 360 solar-powered security towers equipped with dual ROSA™ units - smart, portable, AI-driven security devices capable of human, firearm, and vehicle detection, license plate recognition, and real-time autonomous incident response - at a remote state emergency services location after two years of rigorous testing, showcasing their reliability in challenging environments.

Further, RAD secured new municipal deployments including multiple ROSA-P 360 devices in Detroit's iconic park system and expanded healthcare sector usage with a top-25 U.S. provider adding seven RIO units to modernize their security operations.

These advancements reflect RAD's growing footprint in a $50 billion U.S. security market by offering a cost-effective Solutions-as-a-Service model that reduces guarding expenses by 35%-80%.

CEO/CTO Steve Reinharz emphasizes the company's commitment to innovation and reliability:

“This deployment is the result of a long-term effort by our team to meet rigorous standards … representing a significant milestone and opening new growth opportunities in complex, high-security environments.”

With nearly 1,000 AI-powered units deployed nationwide and a prospective sales pipeline including over 35 Fortune 500 clients, RAD is poised to further transform public safety through intelligent autonomous solutions.

Learn more about RAD's expanding technology portfolio and deployments at RAD Security's official website, see the latest production news at Newsfile's press release on RAD production increase, or explore the details of the RIO 360 deployment in state emergency services at AITX's official announcement on RIO 360 deployment.

On July 30, 2025, Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (AITX) and its subsidiary Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), announced that their AI-powered firearm detection system could have identified the rifle carried by the suspect moments before he entered a Midtown Manhattan office building at 345 Park Avenue, where a tragic shooting occurred on July 28, resulting in 4 fatalities including an off-duty NYPD officer and several injuries.

Unlike standard surveillance cameras that simply recorded the event, RAD's advanced analytics flagged the presence of the M4-style rifle with high confidence before the suspect reached the entrance, offering potential for immediate autonomous deterrence actions such as flashing lights, audible alerts, and live audio intervention to disrupt the attack.

CEO and founder Steve Reinharz emphasized the necessity of proactive security technology to prevent such tragedies, stating,

"We cannot continue relying on passive cameras that simply record such tragedies... Every second matters, and we must do better."

RAD's Chief Security Officer, former FBI Special Agent Troy McCanna, echoed this by noting the critical role of rapid response in mass shootings.

The AI firearm detection is part of AITX and RAD's larger AI-driven security solutions portfolio, which includes mobile robotic patrols and AI analytics designed to transform the $50 billion US security market with cost-effective, real-time protection.

The demonstration and technology details are available via the official Newsfile Corp. press release on AI firearm detection, with further insights found on the Robotic Assistance Devices official RAD security website and corporate updates via Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions company site.

Launching on August 19, 2025, the Apple Manufacturing Academy in Detroit represents a strategic partnership between Apple and Michigan State University aimed at revitalizing U.S. manufacturing through advanced training in artificial intelligence and smart manufacturing techniques.

Located in Detroit's First National Building, this free program offers in-person courses initially, with virtual options available later in the year, targeting small- and medium-sized manufacturing businesses nationwide.

The curriculum covers project management, manufacturing process optimization, vocational and leadership skills, and provides both virtual and on-site consulting by Apple engineers and MSU experts to boost productivity and supply chain efficiency.

This initiative is part of Apple's broader commitment to invest over $500 billion in the U.S. over four years, reflecting a focus on innovation and domestic manufacturing despite challenges such as high production costs and political pressure surrounding onshore iPhone assembly.

MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz emphasized the university's expertise in logistics, engineering, and AI as vital to supporting this essential industry in Detroit - the birthplace of American manufacturing - while Apple COO Sabih Khan highlighted the importance of smart manufacturing for American innovation and leadership.

Businesses interested can register via the official Apple Manufacturing Academy website. Learn more about the academy's launch in MSU Today's detailed Apple Manufacturing Academy announcement and the broader industry impact reported by CNBC's coverage of Apple's new Detroit academy.

Detroit has launched the Detroit Startup Fund, a $700,000 grant initiative aimed at supporting early-stage tech entrepreneurs and stimulating the local economy.

Designed to fund 26 startups over two rounds, the program offers 20 seed grants of $15,000 each and 6 scale grants of $50,000 each for startups with proven outside investment and growth potential.

City leaders including Mayor Mike Duggan, City Council President Mary Sheffield, and DEGC President Kevin Johnson emphasize the fund's broader goals of validating overlooked founders, creating high-quality jobs, and generating at least $1 million in local economic activity.

Eligible startups must be Detroit-based or led by founders building scalable, venture-backable products that improve city services or residents' lives. Applications are open through August 25, 2025, with the first 13 winners to be announced later this year and a second application window opening in early 2026.

As Justin Onwenu, Detroit's director of entrepreneurship, states,

“Detroit has a rich legacy of driving innovation and economic mobility. This fund will give founders the capital and visibility needed to grow and create high-quality jobs right here at home.”

The initiative reflects Detroit's growing startup ecosystem concentrated around Michigan Central Station, which hosts over 140 startups, while addressing critical gaps in early-stage funding to retain and attract talent.

Interested entrepreneurs can learn more and apply via the official Detroit Startup Fund application portal.

For detailed coverage of the fund's launch and impact, see AfroTech's report on the Detroit Startup Fund and the Michigan Chronicle's analysis of its goals and eligibility.

Detroit took center stage on July 19, 2025, hosting the inaugural Robo War event by the Interactive Combat League, featuring 9-foot-tall AI-powered “iron gladiators” engaging in intense, unscripted robotic combat.

The spectacle, described as a real-life fusion of combat sports and video games, attracted 30 teams from across the U.S., with notable matchups including Detroit vs.

Atlanta and Los Angeles vs. Phoenix. These robots, designed with advanced technology including robotic arms and projectile-firing capabilities, delivered brutal, metal-on-metal battles that captivated an enthusiastic crowd on Seven Mile Road, Detroit.

Promoting STEM engagement, the league also uses walking human-like robots in the city to educate and inspire youth about robotics and AI. The event's success, highlighted by viral videos and buzz in tech circles, points to a promising future for robot combat as a new form of live entertainment.

Fans eagerly anticipate the next showdown scheduled for August 16, 2025, at 21630 W. 7 Mile Rd. For those interested, official details and ticket information are available online, alongside live streams of select matches.

As one excited announcer put it,

“The Interactive Combat League is the ultimate hybrid of combat sports and video games.”

The Robo War is not only a thrilling demonstration of cutting-edge AI and robotics but also a vivid symbol of Detroit's evolving tech ecosystem.

Watch highlights and experience the action firsthand with CBS Detroit's coverage of Robo War.

Michigan is pioneering the integration of AI and drone technology to boost energy efficiency in municipal buildings through a pilot led by Lamarr.AI in collaboration with Michigan Central and Newlab.

Supported by the state's Advanced Aerial Mobility Activation Fund, this initiative uses drones equipped with thermal imaging and AI to rapidly identify over 460 thermal deficiencies - such as insulation gaps and potential water infiltration - across three Detroit city-owned buildings, including the Fourth Precinct and Engine 27.

The proprietary AI platform processes drone data to generate detailed 3D thermal models and energy simulations, enabling recommendations for retrofits like targeted weatherization, window replacements, insulation upgrades, and roof improvements.

Early results indicate potential HVAC energy savings of up to 22%, delivered with speed and cost-effectiveness surpassing traditional methods by a factor of 10 in speed and 5 to 10 in affordability.

These findings aid Detroit's Office of Sustainability in prioritizing investments aligned with the city's decarbonization and resilience goals. Tim Slusser, Detroit's Chief Mobility Officer, highlighted this public-private partnership's role in making municipal buildings smarter and more sustainable, while Michigan Central's Matt Whitaker noted the city's unique position as a real-world drone innovation testbed.

This effort is part of Michigan's broader strategy to scale advanced aerial mobility statewide, fostering safer, data-driven urban infrastructure solutions. To explore more about this transformative pilot, visit Michigan Central's Lamarr.AI drone pilot overview, the detailed Smart Cities Dive report on Detroit's drone initiative, and the insightful Architectural Record coverage of Lamarr.AI's autonomous inspection pilot.

Michigan has unveiled $769,000 in new funding aimed at retaining and attracting talent through the MI Home program, announced at the May 2025 Mackinac Policy Conference by Hilary Doe and Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist.

Among five community recipients, Detroit secured $210,000 to launch the Detroit Tech Fellowship Program, focused on retaining recent graduates and nurturing startups in AI, biotechnology, and clean energy sectors.

This initiative aligns with broader statewide workforce development efforts, including the Going PRO Talent Fund, which awarded $16 million to nearly 300 businesses in Fiscal Year 2025 for employee training and upskilling, benefiting over 7,900 workers with average wage increases of 7.2%.

The Going PRO Talent Fund emphasizes short-term, employer-driven skill development tied to industry-recognized credentials and is supported through Michigan Works! Additionally, law enforcement talent retention was highlighted as a priority, with Wayne County Sheriff Raphael Washington noting focused recruitment of young talent.

These combined efforts demonstrate Michigan's commitment to building a skilled workforce and strengthening Detroit's position as a leading innovation hub. For more details on these programs, visit Michigan's new talent retention funding announcement, explore the Going PRO Talent Fund grants overview, and learn more about the Going PRO Talent Fund training opportunities.

Ann Arbor-based startup Nunchi has launched an innovative AI-powered networking platform designed to enhance professional connections within membership organizations.

Founded by former Michigan Founders Fund executive Trista Van Tine, Nunchi uses advanced AI to automate smart introductions, provide engagement alerts, and deliver actionable member insights, enabling organizations and individuals to build authentic, scalable relationships efficiently.

The platform, named after the Korean concept of “nunchi” or the art of understanding others, supports diverse roles including Chiefs of Staff, Membership Directors, and Connectors by replacing manual, spreadsheet-based management with intelligent relationship coordination.

Demonstrated success includes tripling meaningful connections and reducing manual networking efforts by 70%, with clients such as the University of Michigan and YMCA Ann Arbor praising its impact.

Subscription tiers offer scalable options from 200 to 2,500 profiles, making it accessible for various organization sizes. Nunchi also prioritizes privacy and security through end-to-end encryption and member-controlled data sharing policies.

This launch aligns with Michigan's growing tech ecosystem, where startups are increasingly leveraging AI to redefine professional and community engagement. For more on how Nunchi is transforming AI networking across Michigan ecosystems, visit the detailed report at Nucamp's May 2025 Detroit Tech News and explore Nunchi's official site for product details and demos.

Detroit is at the forefront of a transformative $1 billion philanthropic initiative aimed at developing artificial intelligence tools to empower frontline workers such as public defenders, parole officers, and social workers who manage extensive caseloads with limited resources.

This substantial investment, committed over 15 years by a coalition including the Gates Foundation, Ballmer Group, and other prominent funders, launched the new entity NextLadder Ventures, which will distribute grants and investments to nonprofits and for-profits.

Led by Ryan Rippel, former director at the Gates Foundation, NextLadder aims to create AI solutions that spur economic mobility by addressing critical needs such as matching individuals with aid after disasters and streamlining case closures for parole officers.

Emphasizing ethical implementation, the initiative partners with AI company Anthropic, which contributes technical expertise and $1.5 million annually to support grantees using its AI model Claude.

As noted by Brian Hooks, CEO of Stand Together,

“Any AI tools NextLadder invests in will be shaped by the needs and feedback of frontline workers. Tools that don't work for them won't succeed.”

The program also prioritizes transparency, privacy, and fairness, involving vulnerable communities to avoid exacerbating inequalities.

Such dedication to responsible, human-centered AI development aligns with broader industry efforts, including those by Google's deepened $1 billion partnership with Anthropic and ethical AI frameworks for workforce management, highlighting Detroit's role in pioneering technology for social impact and economic advancement.

Detroit's tech ecosystem is thriving in 2025, fueled by robust investment, innovative startups, and supportive city initiatives like the newly launched $700,000 Detroit Startup Fund.

This grant program, announced by Mayor Mike Duggan and local leaders, aims to empower 26 Detroit-based startups over two funding rounds, with seed grants of $15,000 and scale grants of $50,000 to accelerate product development, job creation, and talent retention.

With Detroit recognized as a top emerging startup hub and innovation center, home to over 215 startups since 2018 - including notable firms in AI, cybersecurity, and mobility - the city's ecosystem is uniquely positioned to drive economic growth and inclusive innovation.

Leaders like Justin Onwenu underscore the fund's role in amplifying startup visibility and creating local jobs, while founders such as Arabia Simeon envision direct community impact through technology.

This momentum complements educational pathways such as the AI Essentials for Work and Solo AI Tech Entrepreneur bootcamps offered by Nucamp coding bootcamps, cultivating the workforce needed to sustain Detroit's rising tech prominence.

Collectively, these efforts illustrate how Detroit is nurturing a dynamic, inclusive, and future-ready tech landscape that blends historic industrial roots with cutting-edge artificial intelligence and entrepreneurial spirit.