top of page
Search

Velocity Entrepreneurs in the NEWS!


ree

Welcome to the April Blog, where we celebrate the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. Are you ready to explore exciting opportunities? This month, you can look forward to details on signing up for upcoming events, learning about our new programs, and meeting some of Velocity's inspiring entrepreneurs. Plus, get the inside scoop on the thrilling 3x3 Pitch Competition, where big ideas take center stage.


What's inside this BLOG?


1️⃣ 3x3 Pitch Competition Information!

2️⃣ Celebrating Velocity Entrepreneurs & Honoring Achievements

3️⃣ Velocity in the News: Featuring Marc D. Alexander & Backyard Bats

4️⃣ Upcoming Events: Join the community & save your seat for our next free event at Velocity!


ree

3x3 Pitch Competition

Are you ready to accelerate your business growth and share your innovative ideas with the world? Join us at the Velocity 3x3 Pitch Competition, an exciting event designed to spotlight stories of innovation and growth. This is your chance to present your groundbreaking ideas in just three minutes, demonstrating how you've harnessed new business models, cutting-edge technology, or creative strategies to drive your small business forward. Participants will be competing for three awards, plus an audience favorite award! The stakes are high—but so are the rewards.

 

The event takes place on Thursday, May 15th, from 6-9 pm at Velocity. Seize this incredible opportunity to showcase your business, gain valuable insights from experts, and compete for cash prizes of up to $10,000.

 

Applications are open now and will close on Thursday, April 24th, with notifications sent out on May 1st. Don't miss your chance to be part of this dynamic platform for innovation and entrepreneurial success!

 

For additional information and to submit your application, please visit this link.


ree

More About Backyard Bats...

 

Backyard Bats is making a significant impact in the baseball community with the support of Velocity's Accelerator Program and grant funding. This Macomb County-based company, known for its top-quality custom-made bats and equipment, is stepping up to the plate with a remarkable blend of craftsmanship and entrepreneurship. Recently, Backyard Bats completed a successful tour of professional baseball spring training facilities in Florida, securing orders and distributing samples to several major and minor league teams.

 

Their journey from a hobby business in Windsor, Ontario, to a thriving incorporated entity in Sterling Heights, Michigan, is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. With the guidance of Velocity, co-owners Ryan LaPensee and Paul LaMantia have transformed their love for baseball into a flourishing business, overcoming challenges in manufacturing capacity and e-commerce with expert mentorship and a $5,000 grant.

 

This collaboration not only propels Backyard Bats toward greater heights but also enriches the local entrepreneurial ecosystem, as the company actively contributes by co-hosting events and sharing insights with fellow small businesses. As they continue to expand their reach, Backyard Bats remains committed to producing exceptional baseball equipment that resonates with both professional players and passionate amateurs alike. Explore more about their journey and offerings at backyardbats.com or follow them on Instagram @backyardbatco.

More About Numa Coffee...

In an exciting development for Michigan's entrepreneurial landscape, Kuhl Beans Coffee Roasters has acquired Numa Coffee Co., thanks to crucial support from Velocity's small business resources. With a $5,000 small business support hubs grant and strategic assistance from Velocity’s Entrepreneur in Residence and accelerator programs, Kuhl Beans is poised for growth under the Numa brand. Drew Kuhlman, the driving force behind Kuhl Beans, credits Velocity for helping him transform his coffee passion into a thriving business.

 

Velocity, known for its robust entrepreneurial support, provides 1-to-1 coaching, grant matching, and accelerator programs designed to propel businesses like Kuhl Beans to new heights. This acquisition not only strengthens Kuhlman's business portfolio but also sets the stage for innovative expansions, including a new mobile coffee unit and diverse product offerings at the Numa location. For updates on Numa Coffee Co.'s grand opening and more, visit numacoffee.com or follow them on social media at @numacoffeeco on Instagram or Numa Coffee Co. on Facebook.

MORE ABOUT DIRECT GRANTS: https://www.mivelocity.com/directgrant?utm_campaign=0b2cca21-13f1-4779-9d38-89528b384fc6&utm_source=so&utm_medium=mail

ree

We are thrilled to announce that Anil Swarup Menawat, PhD, a distinguished client of Velocity, has been honored with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award by the esteemed Marquis Who's Who. This accolade recognizes Dr. Menawat’s exemplary leadership and groundbreaking contributions in operational and financial analytics. As the CEO and CTO of Vayoom, he has revolutionized the field with innovative methodologies such as ProFIT-MAP™ and Vayoom software, driving performance improvements and financial turnarounds for numerous companies. With a career spanning decades, Dr. Menawat's influence extends to serving on boards, advising high-profile firms, and contributing to academia as a former assistant professor at Tulane University. His prolific work includes two influential books, numerous articles, and impactful research, all underscoring his commitment to advancing business and technology. We celebrate his achievements and contributions, which continue to inspire and mentor the next generation of entrepreneurs.

 

Read The Press Release Here.


ree

Around Town, Velocity's "Perfect Pitch"



New Program Opportunity!

 

An exciting opportunity with the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program! The program is designed to empower small business owners to reach new heights of success and innovation. With a network of over 16,000 alumni, the program showcases the power of collaboration and growth—66% of participants see revenue growth, and 44% expand their teams within six months. If you’re a passionate business owner eager to expand your business and make a positive impact in your community, this might be the perfect opportunity for you.

 

Interested Applicants can apply at https://www.detroit10ksb.com/ through May 30th.

ree

Eastpointe's Economic Development Department invites small business owners affected by the construction on 9 Mile Road and Gratiot Avenue to learn about resources available to support your company! See below for the sign-up link. See the following page for the 30+ Business Support Organization (BSO) Vendor List.


Download the PDF below to learn more!


ree

Secure your spot today for FREE upcoming events here at Velocity!




 
 
bottom of page