HOWARD BELL:
 




 
 
 
 
 
Executive Director of TechTown, a nonprofit organization that encompasses 12 blocks in Detroit and helps to create support and funding for technology companies. Bell oversaw the inception and construction of TechTown. In two years, he increased TechTown’s revenue to more than $4 million, recruiting 10 tenants in eight months. Before joining TechTown, Bell led Wayne State University’s Venture Development Office and co-founded Isiah Investments, a venture capital firm.


WHERE BORN: "Atlantic City, NJ."

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSONS: "My fourth grade teacher, my mother, my God, and believe it or not, Isiah Thomas."

LAST BOOK READ: "Arc of Justice by Kevin Boyle."

WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME: "Determined, grounded. I came from small beginnings. A dreamer and socially responsible."

WHERE MY FIELD/INDUSTRY IS HEADED: "We’re headed toward creating Michigan’s new economy."

FAVORITE TECHNOLOGICAL GADGET: "Video iPod."

FAVORITE PLACE: "Capetown, South Africa."

FAVORITE HOBBIES: "Sports, exercising, movie watching."

FAVORITE FOOD: "A cheesesteak submarine sandwich."

MY HIDDEN TALENT: "When I was a youngster, I was a spelling bee champion for years."

HOW I WANT TO BE REMEMBERED: "As a loving husband and responsible father who envisions his family as including the greater community."

Grant Thornton Website At the annual awards reception in April 2014, one Leader & Innovator from the previous 12 months will be selected as the Grant Thornton Leader & Innovator of the Year.