2026 Comerica Hatch Detroit Entrepreneurship Contest

About

The 2026 Comerica Hatch Detroit Entrepreneurship Contest is a competitive opportunity for entrepreneurs with retail business ideas to win $100,000 in funding, receive mentorship, and connect with the local entrepreneurial ecosystem, specifically targeting those looking to establish their first store in Detroit and surrounding areas.

Benefits

• 💰 Financial Support
• Winners receive a $100,000 startup funding prize.
• 🎓 Business Support
• Includes a business support package and ongoing mentorship from TechTown.
• 🌐 Network Access
• Enhances exposure opportunities and connects participants to the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
• 📈 Investment Commitment
• Comerica Bank and its charitable foundation have committed over $1.5 million to support the project.
• 🎤 Exposure Opportunities
• Participants gain visibility through public voting and a final live pitch event.

Eligibility Criteria

• 🌍 Geographic Eligibility
• Open to entrepreneurs planning to open their first retail store in Detroit, Hamtramck, or Highland Park.
• 💼 Business Idea
• Must have a retail business concept to apply.
• 🏢 Legal Status
• Participants must be legally recognized entrepreneurs or business owners.
• 👥 Team Requirements
• Individual entrepreneurs or small business teams are eligible to apply.

Participation Commitments

• 📍 Physical Attendance
• Must attend the final pitch event "Hatch Off" at Wayne State University on May 13, 2026.
• ⏰ Time Commitment
• The competition lasts approximately 4 months, including various stages of selection and public voting.
• 🎤 Presentation Requirement
• Participants must present their business ideas during the competition phases.

Target Region

Open to entrepreneurs in Detroit, Hamtramck, and Highland Park

Target Sector

Retail entrepreneurship and small business development