Kraftologie, a creative learning space offering hands-on workshops, self-guided experiences, and take-home kits, has won the 14th annual Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown, taking home the $100,000 grand prize.
The prize from Comerica Bank, now a division of Fifth Third Bank, helps recipients open a brick-and-mortar business in Detroit, Hamtramck, or Highland Park. The winners also receive a business support package from TechTown Detroit, Wayne State University’s entrepreneurship hub.
Kraftologie is designed to make art and creative exploration accessible to all skill levels. With the $100,000 grant, owner and founder Trice Clark plans to open in Detroit’s District 5, creating a welcoming environment where the community can gather, learn, and express themselves through art.
Clark brings a background in creative production and education, inspired by her own experience losing access to arts programming at a young age. She says she’s passionate about creating inclusive spaces where people of all ages can explore creativity without barriers.
“TechTown is proud of Kraftologie’s win and looks forward to helping the business grow and thrive in the community,” says Christianne Malone, assistant vice president for economic development at Wayne State and chief program officer of TechTown Detroit.
“Each of this year’s Top 4 finalists represent the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit driving Detroit’s small business ecosystem and we remain committed to working alongside these founders as they bring their visions to life, creating lasting impact in the neighborhoods they serve.”
Throughout the 2026 Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest, public voting determined which businesses advanced in the competition, narrowing 10 semi-finalists down to four finalists. After more than 30,000 votes were cast, the four finalists — Asante’s Hi-Life Library, Detroit Movie Theater, Hobby Factory, and Kraftologie — were selected.
A second round of public voting opened on April 29 and concluded May 13 after all the finalists pitched their business ideas live to a panel of judges and an audience of their community, families, and peers.
Public votes and the judges’ deliberation were taken into consideration in crowning Kraftologie as the winner of the Hatch Off event at the WSU Industry Innovation Center in Detroit.
“This year’s Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown showcased the entrepreneurial talent shaping Detroit’s small business ecosystem and neighborhoods,” says Meghan Storey, senior vice president and Michigan director of small business at Comerica Bank.
“The finalists exemplify the passion, dedication and vision required to transform an idea into a successful business venture. Congratulations to Kraftologie on winning this year’s top prize, we look forward to seeing the business grow, create impact and contribute to the vitality of Detroit’s small business economy.”
For more information, visit HatchDetroit.com.
