BATE: What is the Display Group and what do you do?

PORTWOOD: Display Group provides event production and creative services for corporate events. We produce award ceremonies, press conferences, themed events and meeting environments. We also design and construct customized displays and portable marketing solutions.

BATE: How was the process for starting your own business for you?

PORTWOOD: In my previous job, we were limited to offering clients items we carried in stock. I wanted to be able to provide clients with whatever they needed. Through this, Display Group has amassed the largest event production inventory in Michigan.

BATE: Why did you choose to start your business in Michigan?

PORTWOOD: Well, I was born and raised here. This is home. Detroit has always intrigued me and there was no other city that could offer so many opportunities to entrepreneurs. Display Group is housed in an 180,000 square foot building owned by me. That would have been impossible in other large market cities.