Detroit Neighborhood Entrepreneurs Project: Linking Detroit Businesses with University of Michigan Students
What is the Detroit Neighborhood Entrepreneurs Project?
The Detroit Neighborhood Entrepreneurs Project (DNEP) is an interdisciplinary, action-based learning experience focused on assisting neighborhood-based small businesses in Detroit. Launched in September 2016, this interdisciplinary clinic links faculty, staff, and students from across the University – including the Law School, the Ross School of Business, the Stamps School of Art & Design, the Ford School of Public Policy, and the College of Engineering – with Detroit businesses to solve problems and address barriers to growth. The program is coordinated by the University of Michigan’s Center on Finance, Law, and Policy.
We help you understand what you need to run your business
Small businesses in Detroit often suffer from a well-documented lack of access to capital, to business skills and legal advice, and to networks for mentoring and sales opportunities. Women and minority entrepreneurs often face the greatest difficulties in getting access to these essentials for business success.
DNEP is an intervention that works to combat these obstacles by bringing together interdisciplinary teams of University of Michigan students to help entrepreneurs access capital, enter contracts, market their products and services, and overcome other business challenges.
Free Accounting Fridays
New: Whether you're just starting your dream business, have been working full-time for years, or somewhere in between— Free Accounting Fridays can help.
Every Friday, you will find free accounting consultations for small business owners and entrepreneurs to receive free 1 on 1 advice for the their business’ finance and accounting needs. Take the stress of owning your own business; get peace of mind for you at no cost.
At the same time, DNEP provides an opportunity for students to learn by tackling complex, real world problems in an environment where there is a commitment to learning and room for reflection. Students develop real-world experience, learn how to think critically, act strategically, and work in a team, and practice managing client relationships and working in a diverse setting. DNEP aims to foster a life-long connection with community engagement, particularly within the city of Detroit.
By bringing together small businesses in Detroit, faculty, and students, DNEP creates a win-win situation for Detroit’s small businesses and University of Michigan students.
Read more about Detroit Neighborhood Entrepreneurs Project:
- U-M Stamps School of Art & Design: https://stamps.umich.edu/creative-work/stories/lunch-brake
- U-M Ford School of Public Policy: http://fordschool.umich.edu/video/2018/detroit-neighborhood-entrepreneurs-project
- U-M Center on Finance, Law, and Policy: http://financelawpolicy.umich.edu/ross-accounting-students-offer-free-office-hours-on-fridays-expand-detroit-neighborhood-entrepreneurs-project/