Veterans and military-affiliated entrepreneurs took the stage on June 15 at the Traverse City Opera House, presenting innovative business ideas during the Michigan Veteran Entrepreneur-Lab (MVE-Lab) pitch night.

The participants spent 10 weeks developing their ventures through MVE-Lab, a program offered by the DeVos Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation (CEI) at the Seidman College of Business, in partnership with the GVSU Northern Michigan Region. Throughout the program, participants refined their business concepts, received mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and strengthened their skills in preparation for the final pitch competition.

Nick Beadleston, from Grove Community Incubator, served as the local facilitator, guiding participants through the accelerator program and helping them strengthen their business models and presentations. Program support was provided by 20Fathoms and Huntington Bank. 

"This event showcases the incredible talent, creativity and determination that veterans bring to entrepreneurship," said Shorouq Almallah, director of the CEI. "Through MVE-Lab, we are not only equipping participants with the knowledge, skills and resources needed to launch and grow successful ventures, but also contributing to the long-term economic vitality of our communities."

A special guest added to the event's welcoming atmosphere. Wesley, a certified therapy miniature horse from Reining Liberty Ranch, greeted attendees and participants throughout the evening. The ranch is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans through equine-assisted programs.

Shannon Owen, director of Northern Michigan Region, said that Grand Valley and its partners are committed to bringing MVE-Lab back to Northern Michigan next year. 

"One of the greatest strengths of this program has been the collaboration between our participants and community partners," Owen said. "As we look toward next year, we want to hear directly from the people and organizations we serve. Whether that's the format, location, support services, networking opportunities or mentors, we want to understand what will have the greatest impact for veterans and military-affiliated entrepreneurs across Northern Michigan."

Kasey Torres was the first-place winner for her business, Georgette’s Mastectomy Boutique. Torres said participating in the cohort made her business dream a reality.

"The MVE-Lab cohort changed my business direction from vision to reality, and the funding to put boots on the ground,” she said. "It provided real-life scenarios and provoked conversations with real clients. It was invaluable. Listening to the responses from the other attendees also provided unique insights for positive additions to my business."

Judges awarded $15,000 in prizes. Participants are listed below.

• Kasey Torres: Georgette’s Mastectomy Boutique (first-place winner)
• Dominic Cain: Legacy Lawn Services LLC (second-place winner)
• Adam Steuer: FOB North (third-place winner)
• Pete & Laurie Ashley: Retreat Rescue Mobile RV Repair (fourth-place winner and People’s Choice award winner)
• Kalob Hagen: Luigi Solutions (People's Choice award winner)
• Ryan Tarchala: Golden Lion Games (People's Choice award winner)
• Elise Matichak: Rootwise
• Sherman Miller: Making Space — Junk Removal & Handyman Services
• Darcee Kerneghan: Darcee’s Mushrooms LLC
• Samara Polynice: Neuroverse Learning LLC

— Shannon Owen is the director of GVSU's Northern Michigan Region.

Photo Credit: Scott Harmsen