Get ready to hatch your new idea … and you might get $50,000 to do it.
Hatch Detroit is getting ready to accept applications for its 2012 competition. This year it’s partnering with Comerica Bank and … you guessed it … the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest has been hatched. This marks the second year for the annual retail business competition. Comerica is the presenting sponsor and will provide a $50,000 grant for the winning business idea as well as a significant amount of in-kind support to further Hatch Detroit’s efforts to help entrepreneurs in Detroit.
First started last year Hatch Detroit has been very successful. Hundreds of retail businesses submitted ideas and there was tremendous support for the 10 semifinalists. Hugh, a home furnishings shop featuring classic bachelor pad style, took home the $50,000 plus donated services from individuals and companies to help the shop “hatch” and thrive. Hugh opens for business this fall.
“We founded Hatch Detroit on the premise that vibrant and diverse retail is the lifeblood of a thriving urban community,” said Nick Gorga, co-founder of Hatch Detroit. “With Comerica’s sponsorship, we are thrilled to bring together the energy and passion of the city’s grassroots organizations with the breadth and strength of one of the city’s venerable companies to help support, promote and fund the amazing ideas percolating in our city.”
This year, the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest will have more than one winner. It also will provide resources to small business owners and find ways to inspire entrepreneurship in the region.
“Comerica is committed to the City of Detroit and to supporting the small businesses that are a driving force in Michigan’s economy,” said Thomas D. Ogden, president, Comerica Bank-Michigan. “As a bank that has a stake in the future of our region, we are proud to make this investment in Hatch Detroit, and in the city and communities we serve.”
Hatch Detroit expects to begin accepting applications for the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest on June 1, 2012. Further details will be announced at a later date. Visit http://www.hatchdetroit.com for more information.
