Detroit, February 2, 2026
The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest is now accepting applications for its upcoming competition, offering a significant $100,000 prize to entrepreneurs wishing to launch a brick-and-mortar business in Detroit, Hamtramck, or Highland Park. Applications will be open until February 27, and community participation is encouraged as residents vote for their favorite business concepts. This initiative not only provides financial support but also consulting and in-kind services through TechTown Detroit, helping to foster a vibrant entrepreneurial environment in the area.
Detroit, Michigan – Hatch Detroit Contest Offers $100K Prize to Support Small Business Launches
Detroit, Michigan – The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown is now accepting applications for its 2026 competition, offering a $100,000 grand prize to an entrepreneur aiming to open a brick-and-mortar business in Detroit, Hamtramck, or Highland Park. Applications are open until February 27, 2026.
Contest Details
Entrepreneurs with a retail concept seeking to establish a physical storefront in the specified areas are encouraged to apply. The contest emphasizes community involvement, allowing residents to vote for their preferred business ideas. The winner will receive $100,000 in startup funds from Comerica Bank, along with free consulting and in-kind services from TechTown Detroit.
Application Process
Interested applicants can submit their business plans through the Hatch Detroit website. The application period runs from January 14 to February 27, 2026. Detailed information about the application and selection process is available on the official website.
About Hatch Detroit
Founded in 2011, Hatch Detroit is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting independent small businesses in Detroit, Hamtramck, and Highland Park. The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest is a key initiative that awards one entrepreneur with $100,000 and a package of in-kind services to open their brick-and-mortar business. Hatch Detroit also provides continued technical assistance and coaching for contestants who place in the top 10 each year through TechTown’s entrepreneurial education and small business services programming.
Past Winners
Since its inception, Hatch Detroit has helped launch several successful businesses, including:
- Little Liberia
- 27th Letter Books
- Baobab Fare
- Bouncing Around the Motor City
- Sister Pie
- La Feria
- Meta Physica Massage
These businesses have contributed to the vibrant and diverse entrepreneurial landscape of Detroit.
Contact Information
For more information or inquiries, please contact Hatch Detroit at [email protected] or visit their official website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Hatch Detroit Contest?
The Hatch Detroit Contest is an annual competition that awards $100,000 in startup funds to an entrepreneur seeking to open a brick-and-mortar business in Detroit, Hamtramck, or Highland Park. The contest emphasizes community involvement, allowing residents to vote for their preferred business ideas.
How can I apply for the contest?
Entrepreneurs with a retail concept seeking to establish a physical storefront in the specified areas are encouraged to apply. The application period runs from January 14 to February 27, 2026. Detailed information about the application and selection process is available on the official website.
Who can participate in the Hatch Detroit Contest?
The contest is open to entrepreneurs with a retail concept seeking to open a brick-and-mortar business in Detroit, Hamtramck, or Highland Park. The application period runs from January 14 to February 27, 2026.
What does the winner receive?
The winner will receive $100,000 in startup funds from Comerica Bank, along with free consulting and in-kind services from TechTown Detroit.
How can I contact Hatch Detroit for more information?
For more information or inquiries, please contact Hatch Detroit at [email protected] or visit their official website.
Key Features of the Hatch Detroit Contest
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Prize Amount | $100,000 in startup funds from Comerica Bank |
| Application Period | January 14 to February 27, 2026 |
| Eligibility | Entrepreneurs with a retail concept seeking to open a brick-and-mortar business in Detroit, Hamtramck, or Highland Park |
| Community Involvement | Residents vote for their preferred business ideas |
| Additional Support | Free consulting and in-kind services from TechTown Detroit |
| Contact Information | [email protected] |
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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
