Programs

Workshops, training, consulting, and advocacy—built for Detroit builders.

Programming powerd by Detroit Future Ops

DFO313 + ProsperUs Contractor Pathway Program: Building Your Contractor Business Bootcamp

In 2024, AGI and DFO co-developed and facilitated a six-week contractor pilot bootcamp in partnership with ProsperUs. Designed to meet small contractors where they are, the program delivered industry-specific training through Contracting 101 and Construction Industry Market, equipping participants with foundational business and market knowledge needed to operate competitively. Two years later, graduates successfully completed the program, validating both the curriculum and the demand for accessible, skills-based contractor education. We’ll be opening applications in Summer 2026 for our fall cohort, stay tuned!

Close-up of a construction site showing rusted steel rebar grid with sunlight reflecting off of it.
Group of diverse people on stage holding certificates, some sitting, some standing, celebrating achievement, with celebratory balloons on the right.

Workshops for Detroit Community Builders 

DFO313 offers focused workshops designed to give builders and small contractors practical, skill-specific training through short, hands-on learning experiences. These workshops are built as deep dives, each centered on a specific tool, trade concept, or business skill that contractors need to operate more efficiently and competitively.

Recent community builder workshops we have covered:

  • Workshops exploring digital tools that support estimating, bidding, takeoffs, and site documentation, including construction technology that improves accuracy, efficiency, and access to project information.

  • Sessions focused on understanding proformas, tax abatements, funding sources, and how to evaluate development opportunities—particularly within Detroit’s development landscape.

  • Introductory and applied workshops demonstrating how AI can support estimating, marketing, business planning, and operational systems for small construction businesses.

  • Workshops covering balance sheets, financial forecasting, bookkeeping tools like QuickBooks, and broader operational resources to help builders strengthen the backbone of their businesses.

A group of people in a bright, modern meeting room with large windows, working on laptops and tablets, some sitting at a split white and wood table, with a woman standing near the white cabinetry at the back.

DFO313’s community builder workshops are designed to be accessible, relevant, and immediately applicable, giving builders the opportunity to sharpen specific skills, explore new tools, and build confidence one step at a time.

Hear From Our Community

“We look at construction beyond brick and mortar to preserve and hold space for community, culture, and history.”
— Tanya Saldivar - Ali Detroit Future Ops, CEO & Founder