UM-Flint Office of Economic Development and Community Engagement

06/18/2026

A recap of the Young Sharks and Junior Sharks Pitch Competitions is now available! We would like to once again extend our sincere gratitude to the dedicated local teachers who have integrated this curriculum into their classrooms, the judges who generously volunteered their time to support local youth, the CS Mott Foundation for their support of youth entrepreneurship, and, of course, the students who identified real-world problems and embraced entrepreneurship to develop innovative solutions.

06/15/2026

The UMake the Change Student Innovation Competition submission period is open through August 31. Take advantage of this opportunity to showcase and test your business idea in a low-barrier competition while competing for cash prizes. Submit your innovation today and take the next step toward turning your idea into reality.

06/11/2026

Thank you for the wonderful community collaboration, Thomas and Kat!

Built for Belief is a new video story series which explores Flint's faith-based institutions and how they have impacted the city's history.

06/08/2026

The excitement is stirring after the announcement that the Gus Macker 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament will be returning to the Downtown Flint Flat Lot on July 25-26. For more information visit: https://macker.com/local/flint-mi

06/05/2026

The Mott Foundation Centennial Family Fun Days begin today and continue through the weekend. Head to the Flint Cultural Center campus for free live entertainment, games, food and activities for all ages. Learn more at mott.org/family-fun-days.

06/02/2026

Congratulations to our first, second, and third place Young Sharks teams. These talented young innovators came prepared with bold ideas and impressive creativity. We encourage you to continue thinking big, pursuing innovation, and shaping the future with your entrepreneurial spirit.

06/01/2026

Congratulations to our top four Junior Sharks teams! Your hard work, creativity, and dedication in developing unique business ideas have been truly impressive. We applaud your courage and confidence in sharing your innovative concepts with the world.

05/29/2026

Thank you to our friends at Genesee County and Flint City Bucks for the invitation to the Welcome Reception and Pep Rally for Flint City Soccer! It was great hearing from the players and feeling the excitement and energy in the room. Wishing the team an amazing season ahead!

05/28/2026

A heartfelt thank you to our Young Sharks judges for your support of the 2026 Pitch Competition. Your time, insight, and encouragement are helping inspire the next generation of young entrepreneurs and creating a lasting impact within our community.

05/27/2026

UM-Flint is buzzing with excitement today as Young Sharks students take center stage. Eleven teams will pitch their innovative business ideas, competing for the opportunity to earn first, second, and third place.