5 Notable Hatching Alumni who Turned Dreams into Reality
As the Hatching business competition bids farewell after a decade of innovation and entrepreneurial empowerment, it’s time to celebrate the incredible success stories that have emerged from this platform. Over the years, Hatching winners have not only received recognition for their innovative ideas but also the financial support and mentorship needed to turn their dreams into reality. Let’s take a look at five notable Hatching alumni and how their winnings accelerated their growth.
Mr. Leslie’s Cheesecake (2020 Hatching Winner)
Marcus Leslie Sr., the owner and founder of Mr. Leslie’s Cheesecakes, took home the top prize in 2020. His pitch, inspired by a life-changing cheesecake experience, introduced Lansing to true, not-from-a-box cheesecakes. With the prize money, Marcus invested in packaging, improved product presentation, and sought out partnerships to expand his business into local stores. Today, you can find his decadent desserts at various locations across the city, including Meijer and Capital City Market. Learn more here.
Sweet Encounter Bakery and Cafe (2015 Hatching Winner)
Nikki Thompson-Fraizer, the owner of Sweet Encounter Bakery and Cafe, wowed judges with her energy and delicious cupcakes in a jar. Her mission to provide allergy-friendly treats, combined with her dedication to culinary education through cooking classes, has made her business thrive. Nikki has won over $22,000 in prize money through various pitch competitions and even competed on Food Network’s Bakers vs. Fakers, showcasing her baking skills on a national stage. Learn more here.
Tantay (2019 Hatching Participant)
Jose Aste, the founder of Tantay, pitched at the 2019 Hatching with a mission to unite and support communities through a genuine Peruvian experience. After the competition, Jose moved into the Allen Neighborhood Center Incubator Kitchen Program, allowing him to connect with the Lansing community, local farmers, and mentors. Tantay offers cooking workshops, wholesale products, and unique food experiences that bring people together. Learn more here.
TinkrLAB (2014 Hatching Winner)
Melissa Rabideau, the founder of TinkrLAB, recognized the importance of supporting young inventors and encouraging their creativity. Since winning the Hatching in 2014, TinkrLAB has been serving the Greater Lansing community with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) workshops, events, and activities. Melissa’s vision is to foster a generation of independent thinkers through the power of self-eSTEAM, creating a vibrant community of young innovators. Learn more here.
Socialight Society (2022 Hatching Winner)
Nyshell Lawrence, a 2022 Hatching winner and LEAP One and All Program Five Graduate, brought her vision to life with Socialight Society—a bookstore centered around the narratives of Black women and Black literature. Nyshell’s pitch emphasized the importance of representation, and she used her winnings to invest in her business. Today, Socialight Society has a brick-and-mortar shop in the Lansing Mall, providing a space for diverse voices and stories to be heard. Learn more here.
As LEAP closes out the Hatching competition, it’s clear that this platform has played a pivotal role in nurturing entrepreneurship and innovation in the Lansing region. These notable alumni and many more exemplify the power of passion, creativity, and the support of organizations like LEAP in turning dreams into successful businesses. While the Hatching may be ending, the legacy of these entrepreneurs lives on, and there are plenty of other opportunities in the Greater Lansing Region to support early-stage entrepreneurs on their journeys to success.
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