Rebuild & Rise:
The Washtenaw Microenterprise Growth CohortĀ
A 6-week intensive accelerator helping post-COVID microenterprises stabilize, modernize, and grow through coaching, hands-on support, and grant funding.
- Open to Washtenaw County Business Owners Only
- Cohort Start Date: February 18, 2026
- Application Deadline: February 11, 2026 at 11:59 PM
Applications are now being accepted.
Program Overview
Rebuild & Rise is a high-impact, 6-week hybrid cohort designed for Washtenaw County microenterprise owners who are continuing to rebuild after the COVID-19 pandemic.
This is an intensive, results-driven program focused on helping business owner.
Stabilize operations
Ā
Strengthen revenue systems
Improve customer retention
Build clarity and confidence for growth
Participants who successfully complete the program and present at the final pitch event may be eligible to receive a $2,500 business grant, subject to eligibility verification and program compliance.
Application Timeline and Important Dates
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Applications Accepted: Now through February 11, 2026 at 11:59 PM
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Acceptance Notifications Sent: February 13, 2026
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First Mandatory In-Person Session:
February 18, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Location will be shared with accepted participants only
Applicants must be able to attend the first session in person to remain eligible for participation.
Who Should Apply
This program is designed for business owners who meet all of the following criteria:
- Operate a business located in Washtenaw County
- Own a microenterprise (5 or fewer employees, including the owner
- Business was impacted by COVID-19
- Business was established on or before March 16, 2020
- Able to commit to a 6-week intensive schedule with live participation
This program is not intended for idea-stage businesses or businesses located outside Washtenaw County.
Program Format and Schedule
Program Format: Hybrid (In-Person and Online)
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Program Length: 6 weeks
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Meeting Days: Wednesdays and Thursdays
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Time: 6:30 PM ā€“ 8:00 PM
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Instruction: Live virtual sessions, in-person kickoff, and in-person graduation pitch event
Required In-Person Sessions
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Kickoff Session: February 18, 2026 at 6:30 PM (location TBD)
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Final Pitch and Graduation: Date and location provided to participants
WHAT PARTICIPANTS WILL WORK ON
During the 6-week cohort, participants will receive structured support in the following areas:
- Ā Business viability and post-COVID reassessment
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Product or service refinement
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Sales strategy and customer retention
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CRM basics and customer tracking
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Marketing strategies that support revenue growth
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Cash flow fundamentals and pricing for profitability
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Development of a 12-month Business Renewal Plan
GRANT OPPORUNTITY
Participants who:
- Meet all eligibility requirements
- Complete the full 6-week program
- Deliver a final pitch presentation
may be eligible to receive a $2,500 business grant to support approved business-related expenses, including marketing, technology, equipment, or other qualifying needs.
Grant funding is contingent upon compliance with program requirements and verification of eligibility.
Participant Commitment
This is an accelerated and intensive program. By applying, participants agree to:
- Attend two live sessions per week for six weeks
- Actively participate in all sessions and exercises
- Complete assigned work between sessions
- Present at the final pitch event
The accelerated format is intentional and designed to meet federal funding timelines while delivering meaningful outcomes.
APPLY NOW
Applications are currently open and will be accepted through
February 11, 2026 at 11:59 PM.
Space is limited and eligible applicants are encouraged to apply early.
Click Here To ApplyBefore You Apply Download The Checklist Here
