BUILD Class Registration

Not sure which class is right for you? Scroll down to view our class comparison chart!

Spring 2025

BUILD Master Class - Branding

This Master Class will help entrepreneurs understand the fundamentals of branding and how to utilize your personal and professional branding to your advantage. This Branding Master Class will be the first in a 3 part marketing master class series facilitated by Lawrielle West, experienced entrepreneur and marketing guru.

Summer 2025

PNC Workshop - How Businesses Obtain Credit

In this workshop, business owners will learn the value of creditworthiness and how to maintain a good business credit score. They’ll also discover the documents necessary to make a successful application for a business loan.

BUILD Basics Ypsilanti

Are you an aspiring or established entrepreneur in Ypsilanti looking to develop your comprehensive business plan alongside like-minded peers? BUILD Institute is excited to announce our first cohort of BUILD Basics for entrepreneurs in Ypsilanti, powered by the DTE Energy Foundation! BUILD Basics is an 8-week cohort class designed to help aspiring or established entrepreneurs work through everything they need to complete their business plan, such as licensing, market research, business financials and more.

In order to be eligible for this program, applicants must:

Have a residential and/or business address located in Ypsilanti or Ypsilanti Township
Complete application in full no later than June 26th, however, qualified applicants will be selected on a first come first served basis.

BUILD Master Class - Social Media Marketing

This Master Class will help entrepreneurs understand the fundamentals of social media and how best to utilize social media in marketing your small business. Learn more about the many platforms available and develop your strategy to use them effectively! This Social Media Master Class is the 2nd in a 3 part marketing master class series facilitated by Lawrielle West, experienced entrepreneur and marketing guru.

FoodBiz Growth Lab

Powered by Michigan Good Food Fund and BUILD Institute, FoodBiz Growth Lab is an exclusive 10-week cohort-based program designed to support growth-stage product and retail food entrepreneurs across Detroit. This initiative equips existing and growth-stage product and retail food businesses with the tools, mentorship, and strategic guidance needed to scale sustainably.

Through a combination of expert-led workshops, tailored business coaching, and peer collaboration, participants will refine their growth strategies, strengthen operations, and position their businesses for long-term success in the food industry. The program centers equity, community impact, and access to capital — ensuring that Michigan’s diverse food leaders are supported as they grow their ventures and transform local food systems.