#United States #Detroit #Comerica Bank #Hatch Detroit #TechTown

The Return of the $100,000 Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest

The annual Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown has officially relaunched, inviting local entrepreneurs to participate once again in a competition that awards $100,000 in startup funding along with crucial support services. Entering its 14th year, this contest aims to foster small business development in the vibrant areas of Detroit, Hamtramck, and Highland Park. Beginning this year, the competition runs over the next several months, culminating in May when the winning business will be revealed.

Contest Details and Timeline

Applications for the contest are now open through Feb. 27, 2026, with interested entrepreneurs invited to submit their innovative retail concepts. The competition encourages individuals looking to establish their first physical storefront in the specified regions. TechTown has consistently supported local entrepreneurship for over 20 years and champions the creativity and determination shown by small business owners in Detroit.

Christianne Malone, the Chief Program Officer at TechTown Detroit, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Detroit's entrepreneurial ecosystem thrives because of the creativity and determination of its small business owners, and TechTown is honored to champion that innovation through the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest." This statement reinforces TechTown's mission to fuel economic growth through effective partnerships and accessible funding opportunities.

Key Dates to Remember

1. Jan. 15, 2026: Applications open.
2. Jan. 28, 2026: First information session to guide potential applicants.
3. Feb. 11, 2026: Second information session.
4. Feb. 27, 2026: Applications close at 11:59 p.m.
5. March 11, 2026: Top 25 contestants notified.
6. May 13, 2026: Winner announced at the Hatch Off event.

The contest format includes two rounds of public voting that determines the top entrepreneurs, allowing community members to have a direct say in supporting their favorite concepts. The finale, known as the Hatch Off, will take place at Wayne State University's Industry Innovation Center, where finalists will present to a panel of judges and live audience.

Impact of the Contest on Local Businesses

In previous years, among the notable winners of the Hatch Detroit Contest was Walter Pat's Bakery Cafe, awarded the grand prize in 2025. The bakery has become emblematic of the success stories emerging from the contest, offering a unique menu that mixes classical baking techniques with flavors inspired by the Midwest and Southern roots. Since its inception, the Hatch Detroit Contest has played a profound role in nurturing small businesses which, collectively, have created over 60 businesses employing more than 500 locals and injecting more than $12 million back into the community.

Steve Davis, Comerica Bank's Michigan Market President stated, "Hatch Detroit and TechTown Detroit continue to drive entrepreneurial and small business growth, and the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown has become a valuable opportunity for entrepreneurs to further develop, gain exposure and receive critical resources to help them become viable." This ongoing support highlights a deep commitment by Comerica Bank to foster local economic prosperity.

In conjunction with the funding, Comerica Bank along with its Charitable Foundation has earmarked $200,000 to bolster the Hatch Detroit program. This financial support is partnered with in-kind services, including technical guidance for contestants, fostering an ecosystem where dreams can flourish into viable businesses.

The Future of Entrepreneurship in Detroit

The decade-long collaboration between Comerica and TechTown illustrates a steadfast commitment to revitalize the local business landscape. As the contest kicks off for 2026, entrepreneurs are rallied once more to leverage this unique opportunity to turn their visions into reality. TechTown's comprehensive support, which now incorporates over 7,000 businesses since 2007, reaffirms the collective effort of nurturing creativity and entrepreneurship, vital for strengthening Detroit’s economy and community.

TechTown Detroit, operating from Wayne State University, is focused on providing essential programs and education, ensuring aspiring entrepreneurs have the tools needed to thrive. With continued support from both the community and local organizations like Comerica Bank, the future of entrepreneurship in Detroit looks bright and full of promise.

For more information on the contest and to apply, visit HatchDetroit.com.