Detroit Startup G2MDA Spotlighted by Apple and MSU After Apple Developer Academy Graduation

This is where it all started. Inside the Apple Developer Academy, in partnership with Michigan State University, G2MDA was born. What began in this very room — surrounded by vision, discipline, and innovation — is now a growing agency with real impact.

After completing the 10-month Apple Developer Academy, G2 Marketing & Development Agency (G2MDA) emerges as one of the standout startups developed within the program.

Detroit, MI —G2 Marketing & Development Agency (G2MDA), a fast-growing creative and development firm co-founded by Eugene Reid and Gary Fortson, has officially graduated from the Apple Developer Academy in partnership with Michigan State University. The company was not only born within the Academy’s innovation-driven environment but was also spotlighted by Apple and MSU as a leading example of entrepreneurial success.

The 10-month program, designed to cultivate developers, designers, and visionaries, provided the structure and mentorship that helped bring G2MDA to life. As part of the graduation week, Apple’s PR team, MSU News, and local content creators featured G2MDA in interviews and press coverage, highlighting the startup’s origin, mission, and future.

“To be recognized by Apple and Michigan State University for building something meaningful inside the Academy — that meant everything to us,” said co-founder Eugene Reid. “We didn’t just graduate. We launched.”

Co-founders Eugene Reid and Gary Fortson return to their original Academy office space — the only private workspace secured by any team during the Apple Developer Academy — to take a final photo on graduation day. With badges in hand and suits on, the moment marked the end of one journey and the beginning of their next chapter as G2MDA.

During the graduation ceremony, the President of Michigan State University publicly acknowledged G2MDA, praising its growth and innovation. Apple’s internal teams also provided direct support, and Apple’s public relations division helped bring visibility to the agency’s work.

From Challenge One to CrewConnect

Both founders of G2MDA were deeply involved in the Academy’s challenge-based learning model, where participants completed seven real-world projects — each one more demanding than the last. The final challenge led to the development of CrewConnect, a workforce staffing app that now operates under the G2MDA brand.

This platform reflects the agency’s commitment to building solutions that bridge gaps in technology, staffing, and opportunity.

Staying Connected: G2MDA at WeWork

Even after graduation, G2MDA remains closely tied to the Academy. The team has secured office space across the street from the Apple Developer Academy at WeWork, allowing them to stay immersed in the Academy community, support new cohorts, and build partnerships within the Apple and MSU network.

“We wanted to stay close to the soil we grew from,” said co-founder Gary Fortson. “This space lets us continue hiring freelancers from the Academy and remain in constant collaboration with the environment that helped shape us.”

Mentorship, Recognition, and Gratitude

G2MDA attributes its growth to the guidance of several key individuals throughout the Academy, including:

• Dahime, who played a crucial role in pushing creative boundaries

• Cinnamon who offered continuous support and strategic insight

• Anny, Director of the Apple Developer Academy, whose leadership helped make G2MDA’s journey possible

Their combined mentorship was instrumental in helping G2MDA navigate challenges, refine its mission, and build a foundation for sustainable growth.

G2MDA co-founder Eugene Reid stands at the center of celebration alongside four dynamic innovators from the Academy community. Captured in their original office space, the moment reflects the joy, support, and excitement for G2’s continued rise toward bigger and better things.

What’s Next for G2MDA?

Following its formal launch, G2MDA is now scaling up its operations in:

• Brand & Design Strategy

• App & Web Development

• Marketing & Campaign Execution

• Creative Consulting for Businesses and Entrepreneurs

With an office established in Detroit, a growing team, and a mission rooted in community impact, G2MDA is positioned as one of the most promising alumni ventures to emerge from the Apple Developer Academy.

About G2MDA:G2 Marketing & Development Agency (G2MDA) is a creative, tech-forward firm based in Detroit, Michigan, offering branding, mobile/web development, and marketing services. Co-founded by Apple Developers Eugene Reid and Gary Fortson, G2MDA is dedicated to delivering scalable solutions and fostering innovation within underserved communities.

Learn more at G2MDA.com or follow @G2MDA_ across all social platforms.