Jacob Evan Smith

Jacob Evan Smith is a Detroit-based entrepreneur, connector, and community organizer who is also the Owner & Visual Artist at MazySuzan, LLC.23 Here's a comprehensive overview of his professional background and activities:

Professional Experience

Jacob has a diverse background centered around growing software startups, with experience in sales, marketing, and strategic partnerships.1 His professional superpower is connecting people, resources, and ideas to create meaningful opportunities and drive growth.1

Key Skills and Specialties::

• Business Development
• Relationship Building
• Persuasive Communication
• Strategic Partnerships
• Creative Problem Solving

Community Involvement

Jacob is deeply involved in fostering growth and inclusivity in Detroit's tech ecosystem:

• He serves as the Community Director for Collider (by Altimetrik), where he hosts regular events and connects ambitious tech innovators.2
• As a community organizer, he hosts dinners, parties, workshops, and events aimed at driving positive social change through cross-cultural relationship building.2
• He leads initiatives like the Coalition Series, Project Understanding, and Productive Discomfort, which focus on facilitating conversations about race and identity.2

Artistic Pursuits

Under the moniker MazySuzan, Jacob pursues his passion for visual art:

• His art practice focuses on interactive design that encourages busy adults to pause and play.2
• His work has been exhibited in several Detroit galleries, including two solo shows.2
• Some of his illustrations were published in the book "Tear Drops and Balloons" by singer/songwriter Mike Posner.2

Other Ventures

• Jacob co-hosts and produces a podcast called "The Returning Citizen," which amplifies the voices of formerly incarcerated individuals.2
• He recently transitioned into full-time freelancing, embracing a new phase in his career.4

Recent Activities

• In April 2024, Jacob participated in Techstars Detroit's "Mentor Madness," where he had the opportunity to chat with founders from the current class of startups.5
• He has been actively involved in Detroit's community development, sharing news about local initiatives such as the renovation of Detroit's last free-standing synagogue.6

Jacob Evan Smith's diverse experiences and community-focused approach make him a notable figure in Detroit's entrepreneurial and creative scenes, with a particular emphasis on fostering connections and driving positive change.