Spoke in Detroit on Blockchains, can't understand the mindset on innovation

[tonyswish]

My talk was a part of Detroit Startup Week and was the only Blockchain related event. Yesterday, Dan Gilbert of Quicken Loans/Cleveland Cavs fame had a talk on Fintech in Detroit with four "fintech experts". During the entire hour, nothing was discussed about blockchain tech, I was shocked as 50% to 60% of what I see discussed in media, communities and conferences involves blockchain tech.

I had to leave Detroit to work in a field I was interested in and passionate about, after explaining this in my talk, five other individuals told me how they felt the same way. Growing up I was interested in open source tech and other ideas that not one single person I knew had an interest in.

Since leaving Detroit, I've made it a point to speak at any event I can when I'm back in town. The community is definitely there and the turnout always improves, but no new projects or startups have evolved, no established industry representatives emerge and the business side stays stagnant.

When I lived in the city, I always felt the reason the most innovative ideas/projects went unappreciated was due to the city's manufacturing history and mindset. Seeing the frustration in Detroiters who have a similar interest is why I'm revisiting and asking for this community's opinion. For those who would be interested in reading more about this, check out my summary of the event and difficulties in Detroit: https://medium.com/@TonySwish/why-is-detroit-media-refusing-to-cover-blockchain-fc718b774a99