Detroit Center for International Affairs
Launching January 2026
What is Detroit Center for International Affairs?
Mission
DCFIA aims to position Detroit as a Global Hub for diplomacy, international trade, and defense innovation. By revitalizing the region as modern arsenal of democracy, we serve as catalyst for forward-thinking strategies, that foster a secure, prosperous and interconnected heartland.
Vision
To see Detroit reemerge as a leading voice and a nexus for global discourse, fostering a future where international challenges are met with robust defense capabilities, equitable trade, and inclusive diplomatic solutions, all shaped by the resilient spirit of reimagined Detroit.
Program Pillars
Trade
GOAL
Generate original, data-driven insights and actionable policy recommendations addressing pressing global challenges, often through a lens relevant to Detroit and the Great Lakes region.
Strategic Initiatives
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Detroit Future Scenarios Project.
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Detroit Global Economic Linkage Study.
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Cross-Border Policy Dialogue.
Diplomacy
GOAL
Democratize access to international affairs knowledge and foster a globally informed and engaged citizenry in Detroit and beyond.Equip local professionals, community leaders, and future generations with the skills and networks necessary for effective global engagement.
Strategic Initiatives
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The World in Detroit Lecture Series.
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Digital Diplomacy Hub.
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International Affairs Fellowship & Mentorship.
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Diplomatic Skills Workshop.
Defense
GOAL
To close critical gaps in the U.S. national security infrastructure by adapting Detroit’s mass-production capabilities for next-generation air defense and deterrence systems, establishing the region as a center of excellence for defense innovation
Strategic Initiatives
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Veterans Entrepreneurship & Defense Sector Integration.
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Defense Manufacturing and DoD bids.
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Air Defense & Innovation.
Meet our Founder
Tariq Fanek
Tariq Fanek is a seasoned strategist and government relations expert spearheading the effort to reforge Detroit as the "Modern Arsenal of Democracy." With nearly a decade of experience in high-level policy and program management, Tariq currently leads initiatives to position Detroit as a global hub for defense innovation, diplomatic discourse, and international trade.
Tariq focuses on diversifying the region’s industrial base, leveraging Detroit’s automotive engineering mastery to anchor critical U.S. air defense and deterrence supply chains. He works at the intersection of national security and economic development, building coalitions between DoD stakeholders, manufacturers, and policymakers to secure federal contracts and drive foreign direct investment
