2026 Hall of Fame Inductees
Presented By: Oswald | Unison Risk Advisors
Joe Anderson
Chairman & CEO
TAG Holdings
Joe Anderson, Chairman and CEO of TAG Holdings, is being inducted into the 2026 Smart Business Detroit Dealmakers Hall of Fame in recognition of his extraordinary leadership, service and impact across business and industry. A West Point graduate and decorated Army veteran, Anderson served with distinction in Vietnam, earning multiple honors including two Silver Stars. Following his military service, he built a successful corporate career with General Motors before transitioning to entrepreneurship, leading and growing multiple companies across manufacturing, technology and industrial sectors.
As majority owner of TAG Holdings, Anderson has developed a diverse portfolio serving automotive, aerospace and defense industries. His influence extends beyond business through board leadership roles and civic involvement, including past service with the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago-Detroit Branch and the U.S. Department of Commerce Manufacturing Council.
Andy Appleby
Chairman & CEO
General Sports & Entertainment | USPBL
Andy Appleby, Chairman and CEO of General Sports & Entertainment and Founder of the USPBL, is being inducted into the 2026 Smart Business Detroit Dealmakers Hall of Fame in recognition of his lasting impact on the sports and entertainment industry. With more than 40 years of experience, Appleby has built, acquired and grown successful franchises and platforms, including Derby County Football Club and the Fort Wayne Wizards.
In 2015, he launched the United States Professional Baseball League, creating a unique, privately funded model that has drawn more than two million fans and supported hundreds of community organizations. His vision has combined business success with community engagement and player development, with 52 of his players being signed by MLB teams and & making it all the way to the big leagues.
From his leadership with Palace Sports & Entertainment to founding General Sports, Appleby’s career reflects innovation, hard work, dealmaking excellence and a commitment to creating enduring value in sports and beyond.
Peter Karmanos Jr.
Chairman
Resolute Building Intelligence
Peter Karmanos, Jr., Is currently Founder and Chairman of Resolute Building Intelligence which is a data-driven building performance software company. He co-founder and former CEO of Compuware, is being inducted into the 2026 Smart Business Detroit Dealmakers Hall of Fame in recognition of his transformative impact on the technology sector and the city of Detroit. A visionary entrepreneur, Karmanos helped build Compuware into a high-growth software leader, achieving sustained success through innovation and disciplined execution.
In 2002, he made a bold decision to relocate the company’s headquarters to downtown Detroit, playing a key role in the city’s revitalization and reinforcing his commitment to community and economic development. Beyond business, Karmanos has made a lasting mark in professional sports as the former owner of the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes and through his support of youth hockey.
His philanthropic efforts, particularly in advancing cancer research, reflect a deep commitment to giving back. Karmanos’ legacy is defined by entrepreneurial success, civic leadership and enduring community impact.