Establishing a sustainable and vibrant market for local food is a challenging mix of production, distribution, community engagement, and entrepreneurship. Detroit's Eastern Market is meeting those challenges head on. With 100 years of history and experience, this innovative institution is breaking new ground with its focus on developing a stronger regional food system while encouraging the success of smaller growers.

It's been said that the candle that burns at both ends shines twice as brightly. There's little doubt that entrepreneur Vince Chmielewski embodies the spirit of that saying. Working a full time job at U-M and running a successful web design firm on the side (not to mention growing family duties), you can't help but wonder when he sleeps.

With age comes wisdom. If that's true then southeast Michigan can teach the world a thing or two about business, innovation and adaptability. Populations in Midwestern states continue to age, and Metro Detroit is no different. That means more Baby Boomers looking to reinvent themselves one last time for one last adventure, adding even more foot soldiers to an army of entrepreneurs creating more opportunities in the Motor City.