Laker Outlet
Laker Outlet is a monthly pop-up shop that provides GVSU student entrepreneurs with a platform to showcase and sell their products on campus. From fashion and art to food and beauty, it highlights the creativity and drive of student-run businesses. Beyond the pop-up, we equip students with the tools to grow their ventures through workshops, one-on-one mentorship, and partnerships with local Grand Rapids organizations—creating a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurial success.
Upcoming Events
Fall semester is approaching! Believe it or not, we are returning early to celebrate with you all!
Our first pop-up will take place on Friday, August 28, from 7pm-9pm during the Laker Kickoff welcome event! Our cohort students are super excited to be back, and they will be selling clothing, self-care products, and other amazing treats. Don't miss out on saying hello to new experiences, new people, and your Lakerpreneurs as we enter the '26 - '27 season.
1 Campus Drive, Allendale, Michigan 49401
August 28, 2026, 7pm - 9pm
Meet the Vendors
Become A Vendor
Become a Laker Outlet Vendor
Are you a GVSU student with a small business? Join Laker Outlet, a monthly pop-up shop that gives student entrepreneurs a chance to showcase their products, connect with the campus community, and grow their brands—with no cost to participate!
Interest Form for Laker Outlet
You must first complete the above form to let us know you are interested. Once this has been filled out, our office will get back to you via email as soon as we can with the Orientation slideshow and agreement form. Please complete the "Student Business Pop-Up Orientation" within 3 days of receiving the link. This brief orientation outlines CEI and GVSU expectations for all vendors.
- Failure to complete the orientation will result in disqualification.
- We’ll inform all vendors of any updates to the guidelines.
Once this second form is complete, you will be added to the Laker Outlet group chat where all new opportunities for tabling and for other community events pertaining to being a Laker Outlet cohort member are posted.
How to Register to Table After Joining the Cohort
Almost every month during the academic year, CEI releases a Sign-Up Genius form for the upcoming pop-up. To secure a spot, complete the sign up genius form (first come, first served—spaces are limited). The sign up will list the event’s date, time, and location.
After we confirm your sign-up with you, you’ll receive an acceptance GroupMe text with setup details and optional Instagram promotional Canva posts you may use for your own accounts.
Vendor Eligibility
To be eligible to vend at Laker Outlet:
- You must be a currently enrolled GVSU student (all majors and class levels welcome!).
- Your business must comply with GVSU policies. Items that are offensive, inappropriate, or derogatory are not allowed.
- Food vendors are allowed but must follow Michigan Cottage Food Law:
- All items must be prepackaged before arrival.
- Each item must include an ingredient label and “best consumed by” date.
- If you have class during the pop-up, you must have someone sit in for you in order to participate.
- Unfortunately, due to F-1 Visas, international students are not able to become vendors and sell their own products.
What is Provided
We set you up for success by providing:
- One table
- Two chairs
- Business signage to draw attention
- Power access (upon request)
- On-site support from CEI staff
- Promotion via CEI's social media, newsletter, and campus communications
Participant Expectations
To maximize your pop-up experience, come prepared with:
- Inventory & product displays (baskets, risers, racks, etc.)
- Payment collection tools (e.g., Cash App, Venmo, Apple Pay, Square, or cash)
- Note: CEI is not responsible for lost money or devices—please manage your earnings securely.
- Marketing materials like business cards, flyers, banners, and QR codes to connect customers with your brand
Stay Connected
- Join the Student Business GroupMe for real-time updates and direct access to CEI staff.
- Follow @GVSUCEI on Instagram and turn on push notifications to be the first to hear about upcoming pop-ups and opportunities.
FAQs
Any current GVSU student, regardless of major or class standing, is eligible to apply.
Look out for the registration flyer on CEI social media or visit the CEI website to complete the vendor interest form. Slots are limited, so early registration is encouraged. You can expect to receive a decision letter within two weeks of submitting your application.
No, vending at on-campus Laker Outlet pop-ups is completely free for GVSU students, and vendors keep 100% of their proceeds. We also offer connections to off-campus pop-up opportunities in the Grand Rapids area, which may have associated vendor fees.
You can sell a wide range of products including fashion, art, beauty, food, and more—as long as your items comply with GVSU policies and are not offensive or harmful.
Yes, but all food must be prepackaged and labeled according to Michigan Cottage Food Law. Homemade food must not be prepared on-site.
Yes, all new vendors must complete a New Vendor Orientation to review policies and procedures.
CEI offers access to workshops, mentorship, branding support, and networking opportunities with the Grand Rapids business community.
Laker Outlet is brought to you by the Richard M. and Helen DeVos Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, located in 1127 Seidman College of Business (Downtown Grand Rapids). You can connect with us via [email protected], (616) 331-7582, or paying us a visit.