The New Economy Initiative, a special project of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, is a philanthropy-led entrepreneurial development strategy working to build an inclusive network of support for entrepreneurs and small businesses in southeast Michigan.

Since 2009, NEI has invested more than $152,255,000 through 807 grants, reaching more than 46,798 companies across the region as of fall 2025. NEI works by granting to and convening a regional network of entrepreneurship and small business support organizations, and by partnering with government, the private sector, and community organizations to expand access to capital and opportunity for entrepreneurs of all backgrounds.