Published Jan. 29, 2026

On Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, the City of Dearborn will begin accepting applications from local entrepreneurs to showcase their business at the second annual Night of Innovation pitch competition, presented by the American Arab Chamber of Commerce.

Night of Innovation will take place on May 12, from 5-8 p.m. at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center, 15801 Michigan Ave. The free, public event is designed to celebrate entrepreneurship, creativity, and business growth within the Dearborn community. Five standout businesses will take the stage to pitch their most scalable ideas to a panel of judges and compete for non-equity seed funding. The first prize winner will be awarded $25,000, with second and third prize awardees taking home $10,000 and $5,000 prizes, respectively. 

Jordan Twardy, the City of Dearborn’s Director of Economic Development, stated, “The Night of Innovation Pitch Competition showcases the bold ideas and entrepreneurial talent shaping Dearborn’s future. We are proud to invest in local innovators and provide the resources they need to turn great ideas into growing businesses and good jobs.”

Bilal Hammoud, American Arab Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, added “This competition is about unlocking the next generation of homegrown innovators. Dearborn has the talent, the ideas, and the drive, and we are proud to provide a platform where bold entrepreneurs can turn vision into reality.” 

Applications for the pitch competition are open to Dearborn residents and business owners. Interested applicants must submit their materials at BetOnDearborn.com by Friday, Feb. 27, to be considered for participation. 

For application details, updates, and event information or questions, visit BetOnDearborn.com

City welcomes event sponsors

The City is currently seeking sponsors for both the Night of Innovation and the Bet on Dearborn Resource Expo. Event sponsors are given the unique opportunity to support local entrepreneurs while gaining visibility within the business community. For more information and to become an event sponsor, contact Maria Willett at MWillett@Dearborn.gov. 

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