Lansing Economic Area Partnership

 

The Hatching

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The Hatching is a business pitch competition that offers entrepreneurs in Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties the chance to pitch their business ideas to an audience and receive valuable feedback from experienced judges.   

2025 Hatching Winners

The Hatching: Youth Edition

  • 1st Place: Jamie Tran, NailsbyJamieT
  • 2nd Place Zayyir Doyle, BoxerBlitz
  • People’s Choice: Jashalyn Clay, Deveah’s

The Hatching: Main Event

  • 1st Place: Carter Louisell, BRCĒ
  • 2nd Place: Fatima Taha, CocoMar
  • People’s Choice: David Garza, All Things Soccer 517
Thank You to Our Sponsor:

For Pitchers & Finalists 

Entrepreneurs in Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties had the chance to submit their business ideas for this year’s competition. Selected finalists will pitch in front of a live audience and a panel of experienced judges for a chance to win cash prizes and gain valuable feedback. 

APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED – Thank you to everyone who submitted their ideas! 

Pitch Support & Preparation

All selected pitchers will have access to: 

✔️ A pitch-building curriculum leading up to the event. 

✔️ 1-on-1 coaching and support to refine their idea and submission. 

✔️ Guidance on pitch deck creation to ensure a strong, compelling presentation. 

How it Works

  1. Submit your business idea through the application process.
  2. A panel of judges will review applications and select finalists.
  3. Finalists will pitch their ideas during The Hatching 2025 event.
  4. Judges will award prizes to winners based on creativity, feasibility, and impact.

Who Should Apply

The Hatching is open to:

  • Adults looking to bring their innovative concepts to life.
  • Individuals from Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties.

Whether you’re just starting out or refining your business plan, this is the perfect opportunity to showcase your vision.

* Youth Pitchers will be selected from our partner organizations

The Application Process

  1. Prepare Your Idea: Clearly outline your concept, its purpose, and potential impact.
  2. Submit Online: Complete the application form by the deadline.
  3. Selection: Finalists will be notified and encouraged to participate in pitch workshops leading up to the event.
  4. Pitch: Present your idea in a fun, high-energy environment during The Hatching 2025.

Impact

Since its inception, The Hatching has seen over 600 applications and has awarded more than $150,000 in funding to early-stage businesses. With over 90 winners to date, the event has become a cornerstone of the Lansing region’s entrepreneurial community.

  • Funding: Win cash prizes to kickstart or grow your business.
  • Exposure: Gain visibility for your business idea.
  • Networking:Connect with key players in the local entrepreneurial ecosystem during the event.
  • Resources: Selected pitchers will receive pitching workshops and valuable feedback from the judges to refine their ideas.

FAQs

What types of ideas are accepted?

Any innovative business idea is welcome, whether it’s a product, service, or technology.

Is there an age limit?

The Youth competition is open to high school students, while the main event is for participants aged 18 and older.

What resources are available to help me prepare?

Finalists will receive guidance through scheduled workshops to help them with pitch skills prior to the event.

Can I apply if I’ve pitched before?

Yes, as long as your idea fits the competition’s criteria.

For More Information

For more information on The Hatching 2025, contact equity@purelansing.com. We’re excited to help you bring your business idea to life—because you bring the idea, and we make it happen in a fun and inspiring way!