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The region’s most open pitch competition

Attend this month's 5x5 Night! The top 5 contestants will be pitching their ideas to our judging panel for a shot at winning $5,000. Show up and support these entrepreneurs!

November 5×5 Night at Start Garden
December 3, 2024 5:00 pm
Location: Start Garden
Voting is Closed
November 5×5 Night at Start Garden
December 3, 2024 5:00 pm
Location: Start Garden
Voting is Closed

October 5×5 Night Winner!

Michael Gallagher of Rituil

Congratulations 🎉to last night’s 5×5 Winner- Michael Gallagher of Rituil‼️ The pitch was amazing as Michael seamlessly communicated everything from his company’s vision, history, financial info. & even provided great examples of product! We’re excited to see how Rituil grows!

Voting Closes: November 18, 2024 11:59 pm
Inner Fitness Counseling and Wellness Center
My business idea is to open an integrative wellness practice with mental health and fitness services in one location called Inner Fitness and Wellness Center in Grand Rapids. Inner Fitness Counseling and Wellness Center will strive to provide our clients with a unique and comprehensive mental health and wellness approach. By offering a combination of counseling and fitness programs, we will aim to address the mind-body connection to promote overall well-being. Our center will be committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can explore their personal growth and healing journeys.
Hawks Collective
Our goal is to bring as many people to Christ as possible while maintaining our brand identity as a Christian streetwear brand.
Elder Junction
An accessible online marketplace for elderly Americans, offering products, services, and resources for their needs
KimmieLewWellness
At KimmieLewWellness, our mission is to empower women, particularly those who are juggling the roles of wife, mother, and professional, to rediscover their true selves after periods of self-neglect. As women age, it is common for them to prioritize the needs of others over their own well-being. KimmieLewWellness specifically caters to women aged 35 and above, offering a comprehensive range of services designed to enhance their strength, confidence, and mindset. Through life coaching, image consulting, and body sculpting, we provide a holistic approach to personal development. Our virtual fitness classes, one-on-one coaching sessions, motivational workouts, and image consulting services are meticulously crafted to keep our clients motivated and committed to achieving their goals, whether they choose to engage with us in person or virtually.
Nurture and Nourish
Expanding my farm-to-table business, making jams, pickles, & pasta with local produce, supporting farm animal rescue
LA VOZ DE MI GENTE
A cultural exhibition reconnecting Puerto Ricans to their roots through powerful photography, storytelling and community
Las Amigas Tequila, LLC
Las Amigas Tequila, LLC is a 100% women-owned and minority-owned business Certified by WBEC and founded in 2023. Las Amigas Tequila is set to launch its first premium tequila product, Fuerza Divina (Divine Strength), in early 2025. The company was inspired by two Latina entrepreneurs from West Michigan, Ana Olson and Angelita Valdez, to break barriers in the male-dominated spirits industry. Las Amigas Tequila specializes in producing high-quality tequila made from Blue Agave, sourced directly from Tequila, Mexico. This product aims to serve an underserved market—tequila enthusiasts looking for an authentic, premium, and culturally-driven spirit that embodies female empowerment.
BRCĒ
BRCĒ is a material-tech startup creating an ecosystem of athletic & industrial gear for support in performance, safety & recovery, using cutting-edge materials & patented nano-interlock technology. We are inventors of the World's First & Only SHOELACES THAT NEVER COME UNTIED™ for kids, athletes & the military, currently licensed to the world's largest athletic and industrial manufacturers, in partnership with MHSAA, MIAAA & DASA!
Hiver
Hiver is a social media app that exists to bring back genuine human connection.
Toro Coffee
We are a mobile coffee cart — our concept is easy; bring the coffee to the people, wherever that may be. Our focus will be on events such as: weddings, festivals, corporate events, private events, community pop-ups, and more. Grand Rapids is a city built on community, and Toro Coffee wants to be an extension of that. We strive to bring excellent hospitality and accessible specialty coffee.
Tech Tronics
We deliver fractional strategic technology leadership to startups and high-growth firms, leveraging deep expertise in software, cloud, and digital marketing.
Harvest Local Hub
A digital platform connecting local farmers to consumers with seasonal produce, reducing waste, and promoting sustainability.
Patrias Kitchen
Patria's Kitchen transforms events with our passion, heritage, and community blended to create unique, memorable dining experiences
Maudi LLC
Maudi is a brand built to redefine inclusivity in high-end fashion, designed for those who value bold self expression. Founded by a black female designer, Maudi bridges a gap in the industry by crafting high-quality unique pieces that cater to all- without sacrificing exclusivity. Our mission goes beyond clothing; it’s about creating spaces where people of all backgrounds feel seen, valued, and confident. Unlike mass produced labels, Maudi’s designs reflect a personal commitment to authenticity and empowerment, connecting with individuals who understand the importance of self-expression. With strong community ties, particularly to Grand Rapids, Maudi aims to inspire a new generation to embrace their identity unapologetically and make a statement without saying a word.
REMOTivatEd – App for Remote Workers
The first of its kind, an app created for remote workers by remote workers, featuring challenges to foster productivity, health, and work-life balance.
Curious_Department
Ever drive by a building and wonder what they do in there? Soon, you'll know.
Kyspuzzlers
We have launched a clothing line specifically designed for kids with Autism. Our goal is to raise awareness and create clothing options that are both fashionable and comfortable for children with Autism. We believe that every child deserves to express their unique style, and our clothing line aims to empower them to do so. By combining fashion and inclusivity, we are striving to make a positive impact in the lives of children with Autism.
J’S BBQ LLC
BBQ pulled pork and chicken sandwiches served from a mobile food cart. “Hotdog cart”
The Green Leap
Imagine a superfood that’s packed with protein, nutrients, and sustainability—all in one scoop. That’s exactly what we offer! The twist? We use a unique and unconventional ingredient for some Western diets, -one that has been consumed for centuries in Asia, Latin America and Africa: CRICKETS!!!
G3 Elite LLC
A solution-based training and mentorship company focused on transforming drivers into successful transportation business owners. We offer a comprehensive program that combines practical driving training with in-depth business fundamentals, equipping drivers with the skills needed to launch and manage their own independent transportation businesses. Our mission is to provide drivers with the tools to transition from employee to entrepreneur, creating a pathway for financial independence and community empowerment.
Old Wineskins Wedding Gifts
We give people the opportunity to gift the best memory to newlyweds by turning the champagne bottle from their wedding toast into a sea glass display.
Pierre davon Pascal
Established after school fashion clubs, that focus on fashion related activities that can create safe space where youth feels welcome to express themselves. Activities can include sewing, design brain storming session and guest speakers from the fashion industry. Also community fashion shows. Organizing fashion shows that allow youth to showcase their designs that can boost their confidence and provide a platforms for self expression.
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Our Finalists

Las Amigas Tequila, LLC
Las Amigas Tequila, LLC is a 100% women-owned and minority-owned business Certified by WBEC and founded in 2023. Las Amigas Tequila is set to launch its first premium tequila product, Fuerza Divina (Divine Strength), in early 2025. The company was inspired by two Latina entrepreneurs from West Michigan, Ana Olson and Angelita Valdez, to break barriers in the male-dominated spirits industry. Las Amigas Tequila specializes in producing high-quality tequila made from Blue Agave, sourced directly from Tequila, Mexico. This product aims to serve an underserved market—tequila enthusiasts looking for an authentic, premium, and culturally-driven spirit that embodies female empowerment.
Learn More
G3 Elite LLC
A solution-based training and mentorship company focused on transforming drivers into successful transportation business owners. We offer a comprehensive program that combines practical driving training with in-depth business fundamentals, equipping drivers with the skills needed to launch and manage their own independent transportation businesses. Our mission is to provide drivers with the tools to transition from employee to entrepreneur, creating a pathway for financial independence and community empowerment.
Learn More
Tech Tronics
We deliver fractional strategic technology leadership to startups and high-growth firms, leveraging deep expertise in software, cloud, and digital marketing.
Learn More
Old Wineskins Wedding Gifts
We give people the opportunity to gift the best memory to newlyweds by turning the champagne bottle from their wedding toast into a sea glass display.
Learn More
Maudi LLC
Maudi is a brand built to redefine inclusivity in high-end fashion, designed for those who value bold self expression. Founded by a black female designer, Maudi bridges a gap in the industry by crafting high-quality unique pieces that cater to all- without sacrificing exclusivity. Our mission goes beyond clothing; it’s about creating spaces where people of all backgrounds feel seen, valued, and confident. Unlike mass produced labels, Maudi’s designs reflect a personal commitment to authenticity and empowerment, connecting with individuals who understand the importance of self-expression. With strong community ties, particularly to Grand Rapids, Maudi aims to inspire a new generation to embrace their identity unapologetically and make a statement without saying a word.
Learn More

Our Supporters

What’s your big idea?

“Eek! What happens if I share my idea with the world?”
Best case scenario, it changes the world. Worst case scenario, nothing happens. So, see if something happens. Share and learn!

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