The Detroit Auto Show, in partnership with Creator Con, has announced the winners of the Detroit Auto Show x Creator Con Social Media Contest — a creative challenge designed to elevate local creators and showcase the automotive story through fresh, authentic voices.
With more than 50 entries submitted, the contest drew an impressive range of videos capturing the energy, emotion, and culture that define both the Detroit Auto Show and the Motor City itself. From cinematic edits to personal perspectives, creators leaned into what Detroit does best: telling real stories with heart and originality.
“This contest is about more than social media — it’s about investing in creators and giving them a platform,” said Sam Klemet, Executive Director of the Detroit Auto Show. “The auto industry has always been powered by people — designers, engineers, builders — and today, storytellers are part of that ecosystem. These creators are helping us tell the automotive story in new, modern, and incredibly authentic ways.”
Contest Winners & Prizes
Watch the winning videos here:
https://detroitautoshow.com/creator-contest/
First Place
Robert Saul
Prize: $5,000 plus a pair of tickets to the Detroit Auto Show’s Charity Preview
Robert’s submission stood out for its compelling storytelling and emotional connection to the show experience.
Second Place
Chris Hankins
Prize: $1,000
Chris delivered a polished and creative piece that highlighted the scale, excitement, and personality of the show.
Third Place
Anthony Hamilton
Prize: $500
Anthony’s reel captured the vibe and momentum of the show in a way that resonated strongly across social platforms.
Elevating Creators, Amplifying Detroit
Founded to support and empower creators, Creator Con saw the partnership as a natural fit.
“Detroit is full of incredibly talented creators who just need the right stage,” said Robert Courtney Collins, Founder of Creator Con. “This contest wasn’t just about winning — it was about visibility, opportunity, and giving creators a chance to be part of a major cultural moment. Partnering with the Detroit Auto Show shows what’s possible when big institutions genuinely invest in the creative community.”
As part of the celebration, the winning videos will be featured in a special display at the Detroit Auto Show, giving attendees a chance to experience the content in a new, immersive way. All three winners will also be officially recognized during the public days of the show, further spotlighting their work and contributions.
“The Detroit Auto Show has always been about showcasing what’s next,” Klemet added. “That includes the next generation of storytellers. By putting these creators front and center at the show, we’re not only celebrating their work — we’re reinforcing that Detroit’s automotive story is still being written, and it’s being written by the community.”
For more information on the Detroit Auto Show and future creator opportunities, visit detroitautoshow.com.
2026 Detroit Auto Show Highlights
The Gallery Fundraiser: Tuesday, Jan. 13
Media & Industry Days: Wednesday–Thursday, Jan. 14–15
Mobility Global Forum: Wednesday–Thursday, Jan. 14–15
Future Leaders Program (University Student Access & Career Pathways): Thursday, Jan. 15
Charity Preview: Friday, Jan. 16
Public Show: Saturday–Sunday, Jan. 17–25
Racing Day presented by the Detroit Grand Prix: Tuesday, Jan. 20
Future Leaders Program (High School Student Access & Career Pathways): Wednesday–Thursday, Jan. 21-22
Press Contacts:
Heather George – Detroit Auto Show, hgeorge@loviogeorge.com
