Dearborn Works Program

Applications for Cohort 4 are now open.

Apply Today

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 local entrepreneurs and professionals. Funded by the Department of Labor, this program is designed to empower individuals 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 leadership and growth 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 resident of the city of Dearborn or have 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 4

  • Orientation: Wednesday, September 2, 2026 from 6-8pm
  • Class 1: Wednesday, September 16, 2026 from 6-8pm
  • Class 2: Wednesday, September 23, 2026 from 6-8pm
  • Class 3: Wednesday, September 30, 2026 from 6-8pm
  • Class 4: Wednesday, October 7, 2026 from 6-8pm
  • Class 5: Wednesday, October 14, 2026 from 6-8pm
  • Class 6: Wednesday, October 21, 2026 from 6-8pm
  • Class 7: Wednesday, October 28, 2026 from 6-8pm
  • Class 8: Wednesday, November 4, 2026 from 6-8pm

The City of Dearborn’s Dearborn WORKS Program is supported by the U.S. Department of Labor. A total of $653,851, or 99% of the program, is financed with Federal funds, and $6000, or 1%, is funded by non-governmental sources, including AAWBC.

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