Local Business Resources
Business Resources
The Workforce & Business Development Division within the Economic Development Department strategically leads and enhances initiatives that foster economic growth, community well-being, and individual prosperity, increasing employment opportunities for residents and business owners.
Find out how we help empower businesses and individuals with resources and tools for business development, growth, and sustainability. Discover events, workshops, training, grants, and opportunities to help you succeed as a business owner in Dearborn.
BEGINNING NOV. 15
Apply to Dearborn WORKS
Implemented in partnership with Arab American Women’s Business Council (AAWBC), the Dearborn WORKS (Women’s Opportunity to Realize their Knowledge and Skills) initiative is geared towards women in Dearborn, especially those who are new to the United States and/or Arab American, who are seeking employment opportunities or advancement.
Women enrolled in the program after successful completion of an application process overseen by the Dearborn Department of Economic Development will have access to financial literacy courses, professional development workshops, an eight-week intensive business boot camp, networking opportunities, and much more. Graduates will be connected with further training opportunities and resources as they enter the workforce.
Those who complete the program and are looking to start their own businesses may also qualify for seed money investments for branding strategy, data analytics, digital marketing, licensing fees, networking expenses, and legal and administrative fees for their new ventures. AAWBC will oversee the utilization of seed funding by participants to ensure compliance with City and DOL parameters.
AAWBC will begin accepting applications for the women's boot camp program starting Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, with applications closing on Monday, Dec. 1.
Application & More Information
Business Compliance Guide
This guide provides helpful recommendations regarding compliance within the City of Dearborn. Learn about the regulations regarding building facade maintenance, sanitation regulations, and more.
Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce
The DACC can connect you with local customers through networking events, offer cost-saving member discounts, and provide educational workshops to help you grow and expand your business.
ACCESS
ACCESS offers a range of resources and one-on-one support to help small businesses grow and for business owners to achieve their goals. In addition, the City of Dearborn has partnered with Access to provide free Google Certifications in a variety of fields, including IT Support, digital marketing, program management, and cyber security.
State & Federal Business Resources
Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) offers a variety of resources to help small businesses thrive. They can connect small businesses with funding programs like Match on Main, which provides grants for renovations and working capital. MEDC also links you to expert advisors who can provide counseling, training, and planning assistance to get your business on the right track.
U.S. Small Business Administration
The City of Dearborn has partnered with the U.S. Small Business Administration to help small businesses obtain resources for funding and technical assistance. SBA-backed loans may make it easier for small businesses to obtain the funding they need to start or expand their businesses.
Incentives for Doing Business in Dearborn
The programs listed below help individuals bridge the gaps in financing a new business within the City of Dearborn, but are often specific to the property’s location.
Property Tax Abatements
These exemptions are offered solely at the discretion of the local unit of government. Determining the term of years that will be granted and other qualifications vary with each community. Determine whether or not your property is eligible for tax abatements at Michigan.gov/Taxes.
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (BRA)
The Department of Economic Development encourages the redevelopment of brownfield sites. “Brownfield” describes property redevelopment obstacles, such as those caused by the threat of liability from existing contamination of an environment. Depending on project eligibility, the Department of Economic Development is prepared to partner with developers to identify and seek technical and financial assistance from various funding programs. The Department of Economic Development assists the City of Dearborn's BRA in processing the BRA of the City of Dearborn in processing requests for assistance for brownfield redevelopment projects.
Business Liaisons
Each district also has its own City-appointed Business Liaison whose purpose is to help businesses thrive by helping them navigate each district and providing all the tools and resources needed to serve the community and its patrons.
Contact Information for Business Liaisons