The City of Dearborn is launching its second annual Bet on Dearborn Resource Expo, rebranded from its original Entrepreneur Expo moniker. The event will occur on May 14 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center, 15801 Michigan Ave.
On May 13 from 6 to 8 p.m., just a day before the main expo, the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center will be abuzz with Dearborn's Night of Innovation featuring a pitch competition that reeks of "Shark Tank" vibes, where five startups will unfurl the fabric of innovation they're weaving in Dearborn, according to the City of Dearborn announcement.
Those looking to throw their hat in the ring for the pitch competition have from February 13 until March 10 to apply, with a workshop on offer during the application period to help iron out any kinks in their applications—and yes, a tidy sum of $25,000 for first place, $10,000 for second, and $5,000 for third, not to forget the People's Choice award is up for grabs. Full details on eligibility and event specifics can be dug up at BetOnDearborn.com, as outlined by the city.
As for the main event on May 14, the Resource Expo hasn't lost sight of its enduring mission, which is to pump up local small businesses with the air they need to float above the rest; the expo is set to host over 45 vendor tables from various groups including City teams, non-profits, and both local and state-level organizations, each one ready to share wisdom on funding, marketing and sales, social media strategies and more, opening up a bevy of networking tunnels for attendees to explore. Moreover, Khalil Dabaja of the CommonWealth Group will play the role of EMCEE, and the day will be flavored with workshops and panels, a business panel with testimonies from seasoned veterans of Dearborn and Metro Detroit business is on the docket as well.
