Published Feb. 13, 2025

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

Building on last year’s success, the Expo is introducing an exciting new addition, Dearborn's Night of Innovation, presented by the American Arab Chamber of Commerce. This “Shark Tank” inspired pitch competition will take place on May 13, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m., featuring five startups showcasing how they’re developing innovative solutions right here in Dearborn.

Dearborn's Night of Innovation & Pitch Competition (May 13)

New for 2025 is Dearborn's Night of Innovation, an exciting addition, presented by the American Arab Chamber of Commerce. This event will showcase the finalists of the City-hosted Pitch Competition, where aspiring entrepreneurs will pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges. The public can attend from 6-8 p.m. at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center.

Pitch applications are open from Thursday, Feb. 13 through Monday, March 10. Prizes include winnings of $25,000, $10,000, and $5,000, plus a People's Choice award.

A workshop will help candidates complete their applications during the application window. Candidates can learn more about competition eligibility, apply for the competition, and learn about the event by visiting BetOnDearborn.com.

The Night of Innovation and Pitch Competition is hosted by the City's Economic Development and Philanthropy & Grants Departments and supported by Comerica Bank.

To learn more about the event and its partners, visit BetOnDearborn.com or call 313-943-2150.

Bet on Dearborn Resource Expo (May 14)

Maintaining its core mission to empower small businesses with the resources they need to thrive, the Bet on Dearborn Expo will feature over 45 vendor tables, including City teams, non-profits, community organizations throughout Dearborn and Metro Detroit, and state-level organizations. 

Attendees can learn about funding resources, business development services, marketing and sales assistance, social media guidance, connect with local organizations and City teams, and take part in valuable networking opportunities. This year, the Expo is excited to welcome an EMCEE, Khalil Dabaja, of the CommonWealth Group. 

The Expo will also feature workshops and panels, including a highly anticipated business panel with Dearborn and Metro Detroit businesses sharing their insights. 

This year's workshops will cover key topics such as improving a business website and accessing capital. A special "Dearborn Ready" seminar will provide valuable information on bidding on city projects. The popular "Fun Factory," which showcases businesses that encourage STEM, creative arts, and entrepreneurship among youth, is also returning this year.

The Bet on Dearborn Resource Expo is hosted by Dearborn's Economic Development Department, presented by the American Arab Chamber of Commerce, and supported by platinum partner CommonWealth Group. Learn more about the event's additional partners and activities at BetOnDearborn.com.

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