What’s New at Newlab Detroit?

What is Newlab?

Originally founded in Brooklyn, Newlab provides tech startups with a place to develop their products and expand their manufacturing capabilities. Located in the Albert Khan-designed former Detroit Public Schools Book Depository building in Corktown, Newlab Detroit is the venture platform’s second development center. The 270,000-squarefoot facility opened in 2023 and is situated within the 30-acre Michigan Central Innovation District. Newlab Detroit attracts global and local startups like metro Detroit’s Sharrow Marine, which makes advanced propellers.

“Detroit is still the best place in the world to make anything,” says Greg Sharrow, founder and CEO of Sharrow Marine. “It’s incredible that Michigan Central and Newlab exist here and that inventors are able to take advantage of those resources.”

How can a business become a member at Newlab Detroit?

More than 100 companies apply for Newlab Detroit residency every year, making membership an exclusive commodity. While membership is not restricted to hard-tech startups, the space is primarily designed to accommodate them. If an application is accepted, the monthly membership cost is $250.

What does Newlab Detroit provide members?

In addition to a fl oating desk, one of the biggest advantages Newlab o  ers is access to the workshop. There, members can learn how to use state-ofthe- art technology that would otherwise be too costly for a startup to purchase. Other perks include access to Newlab’s manufacturing network and community of investors.

How many startups operate out of Newlab Detroit?

Currently, a blend of more than 100 local, national, and global companies operate out of Newlab Detroit. International startups currently make up roughly 15% of the community.

What kinds of products come out of Newlab Detroit?

The products developed at Newlab are as diverse as the people who create them. Technologies range from body temperature-reactive heating and cooling tiles to underwater robots designed to prevent water main breaks.

This story originally appeared in the June 2026 issue of Hour Detroit magazine. To read more, pick up a copy of Hour Detroit at a local retail outlet. Click here to get our digital edition