DETROIT — For the second consecutive year, Comerica Bank and Hatch Detroit are partnering for the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest and will begin accepting applications on June 3. The contest, in its third year, seeks first time and experienced entrepreneurs to submit solid retail concepts that will resonate with the public.
“There’s no age limit. We’re hoping to attract applications from recent college grads to experienced entrepreneurs, anyone who wants to be a part of an urban retail environment,” said Nick Gorga, co-founder of Hatch Detroit. “And this year, we’re kicking it up a notch by asking applicants to submit supporting visuals to help illustrate their business concept.”
Comerica has a long history of supporting businesses in Detroit. As presenting sponsor of the contest, Comerica Bank will provide the full prize amount of $50,000 for the winning business idea and a significant amount of in-kind support to further Hatch Detroit’s efforts to help entrepreneurs in Detroit. In addition to the $50,000 cash prize, the winner will also receive a package of services including legal, marketing and advertising, accounting and IT support from Hatch Detroit and its partners.
All applications must be submitted online at www.hatchdetroit.com. For complete submission guidelines and contest rules, visit www.hatchdetroit.com. The deadline for submissions is July 13, 2013.
“We’re seeking applicants with an entrepreneurial spirit, desire to change their career or simply those who have always dreamt of owning their own business,” added Gorga.
Hatch Detroit launched in 2011 with overwhelming success. The inaugural contest garnered hundreds of Detroit retail business ideas and ignited tremendous community support for the 10 semi-finalists, culminating in thousands of public votes cast for the winning idea. The first contest winner, Hugh, a home furnishings shop featuring classic bachelor pad style, opened its doors for business last fall. Applications and public voting for the contest accelerated in 2012, with more than 250 submissions and 40,000 votes cast. Last year’s winner, the Spanish tapas restaurant, LaFeria, plans to open this summer. In addition, nearly all of the 2011 and 2012 finalists are working towards opening storefronts in Detroit in the coming months.
