Dearborn Works Program
Applications for Cohort 3 now closed as of December 1, 2025.
The Arab American Women’s Business Council has embarked on an exciting journey in partnership with the City Of Dearborn for a new grant initiative focused solely on the development of women. Funded by the Department of Labor, this program is designed to empower women in our community by providing access to resources, training, and support. The DEARBORN WORKS program aims to enhance their skills, foster professional growth, and open doors to new career opportunities. Through this program, all applicants will have the chance to engage through these different means:
- Training Workshops
- Financial Literacy courses that cover budgeting and financial management
- Professional development workshops focused on career development and job search strategies
- Business Boot Camp: An eight-week intensive program teaching entrepreneurship fundamentals, business
planning, and marketing. - Networking Events
Panel discussions on women in business, featuring guest speakers from diverse sectors. - Regular check-ins to gather participant feedback and assess program effectiveness.
- Ongoing assistance for graduates of the program including additional business coaching as they enter the
workforce or launch their business. - Seed funding in the amount of $3,500 that can be used towards any of the following:
- Branding Strategy
- Data Analytics
- Logo redesigns/creation
- Ads
- SAAS
- Websites
- SEO optimization
- Video Shoots (Products)
- Photo Shoots
- Digital Marketing
- Licensing fees
Eligibility Requirements
- You are a woman who resides in the city of Dearborn or has a business in the City of Dearborn.
- You are in the ideation phase or have already launched your business but have been in business for 5 years or less and looking to enhance your business impact and performance.
- Must work with coaches and other resources provided to complete the business plan and partake in the pitch competition.
- Must commit to working with coaches and AAWBC for 12 months following the class to track success and growth.
You can commit to completing the 8 week program, location @ AAWBC Office: 22952 Outer Drive W, Dearborn, MI 48124. Most classes will be in person, possibility of zoom classes for no more than 2. If you cannot attend all classes, you will not be considered for seed funding.
Class Dates for Cohort 3
Class dates for thethird cohort are as follows:
- Wednesday January 14th, 2026
- Wednesday January 21st, 2026
- Wednesday January 28th, 2026
- Wednesday February 4th, 2026
- Wednesday February 11th, 2026
- Wednesday March 25th, 2026
- Wednesday April 1st, 2026
- Wednesday April 8th, 2026
