Small Business and Entrepreneurship Hub
The Henry Ford College Small Business and Entrepreneurship Hub supports students and aspiring entrepreneurs who want to explore ideas, develop new skills, and pursue business or innovation opportunities. In some cases, this means starting your own business.
Events open to the public
The Small Business and Entrepreneurship Hub hosts events throughout the year that encourage learning, collaboration, and innovation. Examples include entrepreneurship workshops, guest speakers and panel discussions, community networking events, student competitions, and innovation challenges.
Most events are free and open to both Henry Ford College students and the public.
Programs and Labs
The Small Business and Entrepreneurship Hub connects students and the public with educational opportunities and specialized facilities that support innovation across a variety of disciplines.
Hawks Ignite
The Hawks Ignite Club is an opportunity to collaborate with other students interested in business development through meetings, activities, mentorship, and collaborative projects. All majors are welcome!
If you are interested, contact MariAnn Apley at mmapley@hfcc.edu.
Breakthrough Challenge
The Breakthrough Challenge is an incredible hands-on boost for your résumé or transfer application. Team up, work with coaches, build innovative solutions, and pitch business solutions to judges for prizes and recognition. Students: please register to compete in the Breakthrough Challenge, which takes place in November.
Big Idea Pitch Competition
Present your business or product idea to a panel of industry professionals for feedback and the opportunity to compete for startup funding! Check events for upcoming Big Idea Pitch Competitions. For more information, contact Business Faculty member Selina Thomas, at sathomas25@hfcc.edu.
Coming Winter 2027!
Innovation Labs
Students and the public may have access to specialized learning spaces and equipment that support a wide range of projects, including:
- Fabrication and maker space
- Electronics and robotics
- Culinary kitchen
- Digital and AI lab
- Fashion, textiles, and creative arts
Many of these facilities are connected to Henry Ford College certificate and degree programs. These programs allow you to continue building your skills through formal coursework.
Services
The Small Business and Entrepreneurship Hub offers free resources and support for Henry Ford College students and community members.
One-on-One Coaching
Meet one-on-one with experienced faculty and business professionals (available by appointment) to discuss your idea, business plan, or next steps. To set an appointment for one-on-one coaching, contact Business Faculty MariAnn Apley at mapley@gmail.com or Selina Thomas at sathomas25@hfcc.edu.
Workshops
Our hands-on workshops cover topics such as business planning, marketing, sales strategies, entrepreneurship fundamentals, and business funding. Check the events calendar for workshop schedules.
Networking
Connect and network with entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and local business leaders through guest speakers, panel discussions, and community networking events. Check the events calendar for upcoming panels and networking events.
Questions?
If you have questions or want to connect about entrepreneurship and innovation, contact Business Faculty members MariAnn Apley, mmapley@hfcc.edu, or Selina Thomas, sathomas25@hfcc.edu.