Culture & Jobs at Grand Circus

On March 28 we sat down with a group of fearless female tech leaders to talk through their experience of being a woman in the tech industry. We covered struggles, successes, and the advice that helped them break into leadership roles that they want to pass along to the next generation. Not only were we inspired beyond belief, but this conversation also confirmed something we strongly believe: we need more women in tech. 

A fulfilling career goes far beyond a nice paycheck and a modern office space. It even goes beyond remote-life, flexible working hours, and work-life balance. Okay, that last one is preeeetty important. But what really makes for a fulfilling career is working for a mission-driven company that does good in the world. 

There’s . . . a lot going on right now.  About 10 days ago we saw the 2nd and 3rd biggest bank collapses in U.S. history with the run on Silicon Valley Bank and then Signature Bank just two days later. Last week, many startup founders frantically tried to figure out their finances, make sure they met payroll, and assure their employee's things would be okay. The dust is still settling, but one thing is for sure: it was a scary time for the startup industry. And it’s not doing anything to help the already

Detroit is a rapidly growing tech hub and despite economic layoffs in 2022, the tech industry in the Motor City continues to grow. Detroit was recently ranked the #1 emerging startup ecosystem in the world, and we can see why — it’s full of some of the best startups and tech companies in the region — and the country! 

Happy new year! January is usually one of the best times to find a new job as companies unlock new hiring budgets and the lull from the holidays is over. Of course, over the last six months or so we’ve seen a major hiring slowdown, but we still expect to see an uptick in open jobs this January.  Because here’s the deal. The majority of these layoffs are happening at Big Tech companies — yes, “Big Tech.” Startups (though they did also see the worst reductions in November) are in fact different from Big Tech.

This time of year we like to take a moment to reflect on giving back to the community. One of the biggest themes of giving back in the startup world is returning the love to the people and the planet that provides support when you’re getting started.   As part of this reflection, we’d like to bring to light a few companies that keep the community and our environment top of mind. 

Detroit is a growing hub for startups and tech companies. From Fortune 500 companies to rising startups, Detroit is also home to some of the best places to work in tech. 

The path to a tech career isn’t always the straightest or easiest. For some, the traditional four-year college degree in computer science leads to an internship and then an entry level job, but that’s not always possible for others. For some, a tech career comes later in life, but it’s made possible by programs like Grand Circus. 

My dad always says, "If you're not learning at your job anymore, it's time to move on." Professional growth and development are huge factors for taking — or leaving — a job. 

For an updated list, check out 2023's Best Companies for Work-Life Balance.   Work-life balance. It’s been a buzz word for the last two years as the COVID-19 pandemic blurred the lines between work and home. As we enter a new era of benefits, the pandemic has made one thing clear: a healthy work-life balance is very important. 

Americans are leaving their jobs in record numbers to search for something better. So when it comes to the best places to work in 2022, what does that look like?

The list is out for 2023 — check out the Top Detroit Startups to Watch in 2023   Michigan is now the state with the highest growth in VC investment. Now many Detroit startups are on the fast track to growth. Whether it’s new funding, expansions or IPOs, it’s been an eventful year in Detroit startups. Next year is looking even better.

You don't have to be technical to work at a tech company. While top startups seem to always have open jobs for engineers, there are tons of great roles open to non-technical candidates, too. 

Workers are looking for more than the best startup jobs these days: they’re looking for a purpose and new types of employee benefits. 

What makes the Midwest the next opportunity area when it comes to startups and tech? Four startup leaders from across the region would all agree that it has a lot to do with the Midwest’s natural strengths. 

We recently hosted our first ever virtual career fair. At a time like this when setbacks and panic from COVID-19 are already causing layoffs, the virtual career fair was a great reminder that there are still companies hiring in Detroit and Ann Arbor. 

I love seeing #BlackTechFacts pop up on social media during Black History Month. But let’s face it, we all know it’s not enough.

Grab your business cards and press those slacks, Techstars Startup Week Detroit is back and we're here to fill you in on the week's hidden (and not so hidden) gems. 

Staying on top of Detroit startup events is kind of our thing.

What are the best jobs for software engineers? And how do you really know what it’s like to work at a company before you actually work there?