Doner CEO David DeMuth is doubling down on Detroit—investing in both its creative class and its sports legacy in significant ways. On the advertising front, DeMuth recently launched the #HireDetroit initiative, a $1 million commitment aimed at hiring and supporting local advertising professionals who ongoing industry shifts have impacted.
Beyond just funding, the initiative offers career coaching, networking, and support resources—all designed to keep Detroit talent working, growing, and thriving.
However, DeMuth’s influence extends far beyond agency walls.
As the founder and tournament chair of the Cranbrook Tennis Classic, DeMuth has also become a key player in shaping the future of sports in the Detroit area. The annual ATP Challenger Tour event, held at the historic Cranbrook Schools in Bloomfield Hills, has quickly become a must-play stop for rising tennis stars. This year’s tournament runs July 20–27, 2025, with expanded seating, increased sponsorship, and new partnerships, including a livestream deal with FanDuel, America’s top sportsbook.
DeMuth’s son, Alex, an advertising executive in his own right, serves as tournament director. “One of the most important forces in sports, and in business, is momentum. And the Cranbrook Tennis Classic is riding momentum across all measures of success,” shared DeMuth, tournament chair.
Numbers back that growth: In 2024, the Cranbrook Tennis Classic garnered over 4 million online impressions, more than 100,000 livestreams, and 3.5 million video views. The tournament drew 3,500+ attendees and was recently ranked among the top five ATP Challenger events for Player Experience.
But it’s not just about elite tennis—it’s about community. The event has donated $35,000 to Palmer Park Tennis Academy and Cranbrook Athletics, supporting programs that use tennis to teach life skills to at-risk youth. The 2025 edition will continue that mission of giving back while showcasing the future of the sport.
The event’s venue, Cranbrook Educational Community, is as elite as the tennis itself. Named a National Historic Landmark and awarded the highest 3-star rating by the Michelin Green Guide, the campus was designed by famed Finnish architect Eliel Saarinen. Its tennis complex was also named Top Outdoor Tennis Facility by the American Sports Builders Association.
Doner created the teaser campaign for this year’s Classic, blending the agency’s creative muscle with the city’s sports momentum. For DeMuth, it’s all about building on Detroit’s strengths.
DeMuth concluded, “Past participants have advanced deep in tournaments around the world, including the majors. Our fan base enjoys watching top players in an intimate setting and come out in record numbers. And every year, we’ve supported our community through generous donations.”
REELated:
CarBravo brings toy-sized pop-up shops to Detroit
