Playground Detroit

Name:

Paulina Petkoski

Title:

Executive Director & Co-founder

How long have you been in operation:

2012-Present

What inspired you to start your business?

I was inspired to provide resources for artists and musicians for greater exposure opportunities in addition to providing insight into Detroit’s exciting contemporary cultural scene. The initial focus was to connect the Detroit and New York City creative communities through special events platforms to create real connections between like-minded people.

What are some struggles you faced when trying to achieve your goals?

General struggles include ones that all entrepreneurs face- registering the business, finding our own unique voice, and struggling to figure out how to make what began as a ‘passion project’ into a sustainable business model.

What is one of your most notable triumphs?

Organizing an adult field trip of 15 creative professionals to attend the Detroit Design Festival from NYC including the transportation and logistics was very exciting. Relocating our business to Detroit from NYC and getting a space of our own is also a huge triumph for the company.

What is one piece of advice you would give to those who want to be entrepreneurs?

Persistence and self-motivation are the most important qualities to have- most everything else can be taught.

 

Where do you envision your business and Detroit in 10 years?

In 10 years, Detroit will be full of local businesses and become a magnet for new residents who want to make a thriving creative economy that can be at the forefront of responding to the current global and local economy needs.

 

Finish this sentence: Detroit / Michigan / Your City needs…?

Detroit needs to encourage mutual respect and synergy between its long-time residents, in both the suburbs and the city proper, and its new residents to create a strong, economic city, state and region.