Pitch Competition
Presented By:
Distinguished Partner:
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By submitting your application, you agree to allow the City of Dearborn to collect your contact information for future correspondence related to this competition and other local initiatives. Your information may also be shared with our presenting sponsor for marketing and outreach purposes.
APPLICATION launch
February 13th, 2025
APPLICATION DEADLINE
March 17th, 2025
FINALISTS ANNOUNCED
By April 2nd, 2025
All applicants will be notified of their status.
FINALISTS
PRESENT
May 13th, 2025
Presenting final pitches to esteemed judges
Join us for a dynamic evening of networking and innovation as we witness the city's inaugural pitch competition showcasing the next generation of entrepreneurial talent. Experience the excitement as promising startups compete for valuable recognition and investment opportunities.
APPLICATION SUPPORT
Sign up for virtual office hours with the American Arab Chamber of Commerce for Application Support! Be sure to choose an appointment prior to the March 17th application deadline.
Join the American Arab Chamber of Commerce ZOOM workshop on March 13th at 4pm to ask questions about the application!
ELIGIBILITY Requirements
• Must be a U.S. resident
• One application per applicant
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must be in business for two years or less
• No current or prior public office affiliation
• Must pass a background check (ICHAT) - If a finalist
• If you operate an E-commerce/solely online business you must be a resident of Dearborn
• Brick and Mortar businesses must be Dearborn-based
• Food/beverage-based businesses are not eligible for this
competition
• Businesses primarily engaged in real estate development, including but not limited to construction, property management, and real estate sales, are not eligible for this program
• Businesses annual revenue must not exceed $250,000.00
• To ensure continued success, winners are required to participate in post-award follow-up, including meetings with pitch competition stakeholders at 3 and 6 months
• Any applicant with a personal or professional relationship that could present a conflict of interest, such as immediate family members of senior city officials or close personal associates, will be required to disclose such relationships. The City reserves the right to take this information into consideration to maintain the integrity of the process.
ELIGIBLE USE OF FUNDS
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Working capital
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Startup costs
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Inventory and equipment purchases
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Leasehold improvements
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Business acquisition
PROHIBITED USE OF FUNDS
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Repayment of loans
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Investments
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Payments to founders or owners
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Prior expenses
apply today!
By submitting your application, you agree to allow the City of Dearborn to collect your contact information for future correspondence related to this competition and other local initiatives. Your information may also be shared with our presenting sponsor for marketing and outreach purposes.
-prize levels-
Award recipients are advised that awarded funds may be considered taxable income. It is the sole responsibility of each winner to consult with their personal tax professional to understand and fulfill any applicable tax obligations related to the acceptance of award funds.