Bedrock’s Global Innovation Center: Catalyzing Health Tech and Life Sciences in Detroit
Written by Casey Iaccino, MIBA Director of Innovation and Economic Expansion
Detroit is poised to become a global leader in health tech and life sciences innovation with Bedrock’s announcement of a new 14-acre technology, entrepreneurship, and life sciences district in downtown Detroit. This ambitious project aims to transform the former Gratiot jail site into a vibrant hub for cutting-edge medical research and development.
A New Era for Health Tech and Life Sciences
At the heart of this development is the planned 220,000-square-foot Life Science Innovation Building, set to house state-of-the-art research facilities and outpatient services. In partnership with leading organizations such as BAMF Health, Michigan Innovation Headquarters (MI-HQ), Ferris State University, and Wayne State University with its TechTown Detroit entrepreneurship hub, the district is designed to foster collaboration and accelerate advancements in precision medicine, biotechnology, and personalized healthcare.
BAMF Health plans to occupy 45,000 square feet within the Life Science Innovation Building, operating a radiopharmacy, molecular imaging clinic, and molecular therapy clinic. This facility will leverage precision medicine technologies to detect and treat cancers and other diseases, while also conducting clinical trials for advanced radiopharmaceuticals.
Enhancing Detroit’s Innovation Ecosystem
This new district will complement Detroit’s existing innovation landscape, particularly the thriving mobility ecosystem at Newlab within Michigan Central. Newlab, located in the revitalized Book Depository building, serves as a dynamic center for mobility-focused entrepreneurs and has surpassed 100 startups in its first 14 months. The facility offers state-of-the-art prototyping equipment and labs, providing startups with the resources needed to accelerate the development of sustainable and equitable mobility solutions.
The introduction of Bedrock’s health tech and life sciences district will add density to downtown Detroit, creating a synergistic environment where diverse sectors can intersect. This convergence is expected to attract top-tier talent, foster entrepreneurial ventures, and stimulate economic growth, further solidifying Detroit’s position as a high-growth entrepreneurial hub.
A Vision for the Future
“Having access to top educational institutions, a diverse talent pool, and fostering cross-industry collaboration in close proximity to major markets has made this visionary project possible,” said Kofi Bonner, CEO of Bedrock. “Bedrock’s plan for this transformative district will not only bring renowned expertise to Detroit but expand the city’s knowledge economy and benefit the community for generations to come.”
Construction is slated to begin in 2025, marking a significant milestone in Detroit’s ongoing renaissance. As the city continues to build upon its rich history of innovation and resilience, the new global innovation center stands as a testament to Detroit’s commitment to shaping the future of health tech, life sciences, and beyond.
With these developments, Detroit is not only reclaiming its legacy as a manufacturing powerhouse but is also emerging as a beacon for technological advancement and entrepreneurial spirit.
Why This Matters for Michigan (and the World)
Both SilverStream and PatenSee are examples of how Israeli innovation is tackling some of the toughest medical challenges—and Michigan is playing a critical role in their U.S. expansion. Thanks to strategic introductions from the Michigan Israel Business Accelerator (MIBA), these companies are forming key partnerships, securing funding, and establishing a presence in the state’s growing health tech ecosystem.
Better healing. Earlier detection. Fewer hospitalizations. More lives saved.
That’s what these game-changing technologies represent—not just in Michigan, but for patients everywhere.
