We started Hatch Detroit in early 2011 by looking at what prospective retail entrepreneurs needed, and we came up with three main things:  money, business services, and visibility/exposure in the community.

In 2011 we raised the initial $50,000 for the winner through generous donations from corporations, individuals, and our own capital.  Those same corporations offered up over $30,000 in donated business services like legal advice, marketing and advertising help, and IT services.

The last piece—visibility/exposure—compelled us to take the vote to the public.  We put it in your hands.  We wanted to give every Detroiter near and far the opportunity to decide what retail business they wanted.  65,000 votes later, you picked a winner.  But in doing so, you did more than help the winner.  You gave the nine other semi-finalists weeks of unprecedented exposure to potential funding sources, lessors, collaborators, and contacts.  Many of them are now well on their way to opening their own shops with the help in part of those they met through the contest.

2012 brings The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest, as we embark on another year of competition, as well as working hard to create other exciting initiatives to help further our vision, continue  to build a strong community, and create vibrant and dynamic retail in Detroit.