The Detroit Orientation Institute (DOI) first launched in 1991, in response to a recommendation in the City of Detroit's 1987 Strategic Plan, a project led by the business leaders of Detroit Renaissance and informed by Mayor Coleman Young. The aim of the Institute was to offer the media and business community an objective, balanced view of the city. Since its inception, more than 3,000 metro Detroiters from businesses, nonprofit organizations and media outlets have participated in the program.

Today, the DOI reaches an expansive audience, engaging business, community, media, nonprofit, political, civic and student leaders. Every session investigates the history, possibilities and challenges that contribute to the city's political and cultural landscape, and offers participants opportunities to connect with some of the city's key change makers. Groups are small and participatory, with community, business and political leaders coming together with life-long Detroiters and newcomers to explore contemporary issues and opportunities. 

Since its inception, the DOI has been housed at Wayne State University, drawing on the breadth of knowledge of our faculty, staff and community partners. Originally a program of the College of Urban, Labor and Metropolitan Affairs, the Institute is now run by WSU's Office of Economic Development.