In 2011, Garrett and Laura Dixon had a vision to open a hands-on learning environment for kids that was interactive with caregivers and uniquely electronic-free. Today they’ve opened two locations of Detroit Kid City in the Detroit area with plans to expand.

“As parents we looked at the details and educational experiences from every level,” says Garrett. “Once you walk through the doors it’s like a home run for all five senses, and your imagination goes wild.”

Detroit Kid City is a 3,000-square-foot historical showcase featuring a mini version of the city of Detroit. It features an automotive factory, music studio, art center, school house, pizzeria, post office, barber shop and bank. Children can dress up and pretend to be a barber or postman, make a music record or a pizza, and more. The working cafe offers healthy snacks and Michigan-made products like Faygo and Vernors.

The Dixons opened their first location in Southfield in March 2012, a second location in 2015 in Clinton Township, with plans for another in the downriver area. Dixon has worked with the growth specialist team of the Michigan SBDC and consultants from the southeast Michigan region. He’s received no-cost, hands-on support with business planning, market research, employee matters and more. Most helpful for him has been the demographics, which he has used to identify the key areas to put Detroit Kid City locations.

“Working with the SBDC is like having a personal business coach,” said Dixon. “They’re your cheerleaders but don’t always give you the high fives and say everything is going to be fine. They ask you the hard questions; such as, ‘How did you come up with that?’ and make you look deeper into the matter at hand.”