Exciting Showdown in Detroit: Finalists Compete for $100,000 in Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest

The Comerica Hatch Detroit Competition: A Platform for Local Entrepreneurs

The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest, in collaboration with TechTown, has entered its exciting final phase for the year 2025. This competition has become a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs in Detroit, providing them a platform to establish their business dreams. On June 11, four finalists will face off, pitching their innovative business ideas for a chance to win a staggering $100,000 and comprehensive support to realize their visions.

Celebrating Entrepreneurship in Detroit

Since its inception, the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest has been essential in nurturing local entrepreneurship, significantly contributing to the revitalization of the city’s neighborhoods. The competition’s importance extends beyond mere funding; it fosters community engagement and assists small businesses in establishing a foothold in the area.

Christianne Malone, the Chief Program Officer of TechTown and an Assistant Vice President for Economic Development at Wayne State University, expressed her excitement about the contest: "The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest continues to foster small business innovation by supporting Hatch winners and program alumni on their entrepreneurial journeys." Many previous winners of this contest have transformed into successful businesses, with ample support from the local community.

Meet the Finalists

The following four businesses have made it to this year’s final round and are set to showcase their business concepts to a panel of expert judges and a live audience:

1. Detroit Culture Clay: A creative hub that offers a full range of clay products, allowing guests to experience paint and sip activities while also supporting local artists.

2. Halie Co: This innovative store crafts handmade jewelry, candles, and home fragrances, focusing on affordability and quality materials. They also provide workshops for customers to create their unique jewelry pieces.

3. Livy's Sweet Rolls: Specializing in gourmet cinnamon rolls made from scratch, Livy's endeavors to create better-for-you desserts without preservatives, bringing joy through delightful and wholesome treats.

4. Walter Pat's Bakery Cafe: A black woman-owned establishment focusing on seasonal produce and innovative flavor combinations, stemming from a rich Midwest upbringing blended with southern culinary influences.

With such diverse offerings, each finalist embodies the entrepreneurial spirit of Detroit and has the potential to contribute positively to their communities.

The Competition Structure

The final vote will open on June 2, allowing the public to support their favorite business. Participants can vote once daily until the pitch event on June 11. The winner will be determined based on public voting combined with the judges’ evaluations during the event. This dual-faceted approach enhances community involvement in the entrepreneurial process, vital for local support and growing businesses.

Over the years, the Hatch Detroit Contest has provided substantial backing to past winners like G.L.A.M. Body Scrubs in 2024 and Sister Pie in 2014, showcasing the potential of the local entrepreneurial landscape.

Commitment from Comerica Bank

Comerica Bank has played a pivotal role in the Hatch initiative, investing nearly $1.3 million in supporting small businesses through the contest since its start in 2012. Meghan Storey, Senior Vice President at Comerica Bank, emphasized, "Entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of thriving communities. Supporting their dreams is critical to building strong and sustainable local economies." Such investments highlight the bank's dedication to fostering the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Michigan.

Join the Celebration

The Hatch Off will take place at the Wayne State University Industry Innovation Center, welcoming community members eager to witness the entrepreneurial journey unfold live. Tickets are available, allowing locals to engage in this celebration of innovation and hard work.

In conclusion, the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest signifies more than just business funding; it represents a movement to empower local entrepreneurs, uplifting the Detroit economy and revitalizing neighborhoods through innovative ideas and community support. Don’t miss your chance to witness the future of Detroit’s small business landscape and to show your support for these talented finalists.

For more information or to buy tickets, please visit HatchDetroit.com.