Published May 8, 2025

The City of Dearborn is set to hold its second annual Bet on Dearborn Resource Expo, formerly known as the Dearborn Entrepreneur Expo, on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, from 4-8 p.m. at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center, 15801 Michigan Ave.

As in its first year, the Expo will connect budding new entrepreneurs with seasoned experts in the business community through workshops, programming, and seminars. Resources include knowledge and guidance panels on funding, digital marketing advice, municipal bids and procurement, and much more.

Mayor Abdullah H. Hammoud stated, “In Dearborn, we champion our small businesses and entrepreneurs like no other. The Expo connects with them knowledge and resources they need to reach initial goals, or scale up and realize their visions. It’s all about making Dearborn the best place to live, work, and succeed.”

The Expo will be emceed by Khalil Dabaja, founder of the Commonwealth Group, a Dearborn business known nationally for its business empowerment services, helping entrepreneurs reduce costs and scale their businesses.

A resource panel, moderated by the American Arab Chamber of Commerce will share a wealth of resources and opportunities available to local entrepreneurs to grow their business. Additionally, a business leaders panel, hosted by local leader Bryce the Third, will showcase local perspectives on business success and challenges, and provide practical advice and strategies to those looking to launch their business success story.

Bet on Dearborn Resource Expo Partners include its presenting partner, the American Arab Chamber of Commerce, with supporting partners including CommonWealth Group, Bakri Coffee, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, ACCESS, Michigan Building and Construction Trades Council, Callharbor, Potato Pit, Dearborn Balloon Decor, Bryce the Third, and Flowers by Renee. 

A full list of  vendor booths, resources, and workshops can be found at BetOnDearborn.com/Expo.

Night of Innovation pitch competition

New this year is the City’s first-ever “Shark Tank” style pitch competition during the Night of Innovation, presented by the American Arab Chamber of Commerce, on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, from 6 - 8 p.m.

The inaugural pitch competition will feature five entrepreneur finalists, showcasing the future of business talent in the community, during a dynamic night of networking and innovation.

The five finalists were announced by the City in April. An impressive lineup of judges can be found at BetOnDearborn.com/NOI. The finalists will compete for up to $25,000 in startup capital.

The event mirrors the mission of the Chamber’s innovation platform, Tejara, the first incubator and accelerator for Arab American and MENA entrepreneurs.

Hilary Ferencak, Director of Innovation and Impact of the Tejara Innovation Hub, stated, “The entrepreneurs we’re uplifting are turning vision into real-world impact, building businesses that reflect the voices and values of their communities, and driving inclusive growth across our region. When founders are visible, resourced, and supported through mentorship, capital, and connection, they don’t just launch ventures, they reshape the future.”

The Night of Innovation will also celebrate the inaugural graduating class of the Dearborn WORKS Boot Camp, an initiative geared towards women business empowerment and entrepreneurship in Dearborn.

This event is supported by the distinguished partners Comerica Bank and The Song Foundation, and additional partners, including: Bakri Coffee, ACCESS, Your Occasion Destination, Paris Baguette, and Flowers by Renee. 

Learn more about the Night of Innovation at BetOnDearborn.com/NOI.

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