Momentum Builds After Fall Pitch Competition as Lean Rocket Lab and Michigan Tribe Award Additional $86,550 to 14 Small Businesses in Jackson and Lenawee Counties

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Feb. 3, 2026

JACKSON, Mich., Feb. 3, 2026 -- What started last fall as a high-energy pitch competition has evolved into a sustained investment in South Central Michigan's entrepreneurial future.

Following thier successful $50,000 Pitch Competition in November, Lean Rocket Lab and Michigan Tribe have awarded an additional, $86,550 to 14 small businesses in Jackson and Lenawee counties, continuing a collaborative effort to strengthen the region's small business ecosystrem through strategic funding and long-term support.

The funding represents the next phase of a shared mission: moving entrepreneurs beyond the pitch stage and into meaningful growth by pairing capital with education, mentorship, and community connection.

"This partnership is about more than one event or one round of funding," said Alex Masten, Director of Entrepreneurial Services at Lean Rocket Lab. "We're intentionally building pathways for small businesses to grow, create jobs, and stay rooted in this region. Our award recipients are businesses that are ready to take that next step and have a clear plan to do it."

Interest in the program surged following the pitch competition. By the January 11 grant appllication deadline, 81 businesses from across Jackson, Lenawee, and Hillsdale counties applied, making this one of the most competitive funding rounds to date.

A review committee evaluated each application based on several criteria, including years in business, clear and eligible use of funds, owner equity invested in the business, jobs created or retained, potential return on investment for community and regional economic development.

While the grant opportunity was open to all three counties, this round's recipients represent businesses located in Jackson and Lenawee counties.

"This was an incredibly difficult decision process," said Amanda Loveland, founder and co-leader of Michigan Tribe. "We received 81 strong applications, and you could make a genuine case for fundign so many of them. As a committee, we were thoughtful not only about the stregth of the individual proposals, but about building a group of awardees that reflects a range of industries, stages of business, and communities across our region. While the decisions weren't easy, we're proud of the group selected and hopeful that every applicant feels encouraged to keep building and growing here."

The following businesses were selected to receive grant funding:

• Anthro Apothecary

• B2 Enterprises

• Chaloner's Cigar House

• Come to Your Effin Senses

• DoughNation Bakery

• Heartwood Caskets

• Old Doug Sauce & Spice

• RA Manufacturing

• Rumors Salon

• The Buzz Cafe and Marketplace

• Touch & Taste by Wildana

• Twisted Scissors Salon & Boutique

• Uncharted Film Co.

Among the awardees, Blue Fig Artisan received the top prize of $20,000, with additional leading recipients including The Buzz Cafe and Marketplace, RA Manufacturing, Chaloner's Cigar House, and DoughNation Bakery.

Together, Lean Rocket Lab and Michigan Tribe are creating a more connected and accessible entrepreneurial pipeline. One that blends grant funding with practical business education, strategic advising, and peer-to-peer support. The collaboration is designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are, while reducing common barriers to growth such as access to capital, trusted guidance, and professional networks.

"These businesses create jobs, activate downtowns, and contribute to the long-term economic health of our region," Masten added. "Supporting them is an investment in the future of our local community."

As the partnership looks ahead, both organizations emphasize that this funding round is part of an ongoing commitment to ensure entrepreneurs have access to what they need; not just to launch, but to scale sustainably and stay local.

Entrepreneurs and small business owners seeking support, education, and resources can learn ore at leanrocketlab.org. For more information about Michigan Tribe, including upcoming events and masterminds, visit michigantribe.com.

About Lean Rocket Lab

Lean Rocket Lab is a nonprofit organization focused on helping entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses at every stage of growth. As a designated Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) Small Business Support Hub, Lean Rocket Lab delivers practical tools, targeted resources, and hands-on support to help businesses move from idea to execution.

About Michigan Tribe

Michigan Tribe is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to empowering female entrepreneurs by providing essential resources, community-building events, and financial support through grant opportunities. Based in Jackson, Michigan, the organization reinvests 100% of ticket sales and donations into a dedicated fund that annually supports women-owned businesses in the region. Since its founding, Michigan Tribe has awarded over $100,000 in micro-grants, helping women start, sustain, and grow their businesses, driving economic impact and fostering entrepreneurial success throughout Jackson County.

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