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September 11, 2025
Saint Joseph, MI - On August 1st, the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, announced the return of HYPE – Highlighting Young Professional Excellence, a Shark Tank-style pitch competition that gives early-stage business owners across Cass, Van Buren, and Berrien Counties a powerful platform to showcase their ideas, connect with the community, and compete for funding and in-kind resources.
The event will take place on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at the Watermark Solarium in Stevensville with doors opening at 5:00pm. Designed to inspire and empower the region’s next generation of entrepreneurs, HYPE offers more than a competition—it’s an evening of networking, mentorship, and celebration of innovation.
The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with a panel discussion featuring successful young entrepreneurs who have turned their visions into thriving businesses. We are excited to officially announce this year’s judges and panelists, including:
- Vanessa Frias – Owner, Willowbrook Farms | HYPE 2nd Place Winner
- Michael Rowland – President & CEO, Michigan Gateway Community Foundation | Co-Owner, Rowland Property Group & Thistledown & Row
- Dustin Jankoviak – Co-Owner, 2nd & Main | Owner, Vision Real Estate Holdings, LLC
- Danielle Grandholm – Director & Founder, Rising Kites & Rising Kites Coffee
Read more about our judges at www.smrchamber.com/hype.
These entrepreneurs will then transition to their roles as judges for the live pitch competition, offering their expertise and feedback as they help identify the next big ideas coming out of Southwest Michigan.
Entrepreneurs ages 21–40, whose businesses have been operating between one and five years, will pitch their innovative concepts to the panel. Winners will receive a mix of cash awards and in-kind resources—such as mentorship, business coaching, and marketing assistance—to help accelerate their growth. Attendees will also get the chance to vote for the “Crowd Favorite,” who will earn an additional cash prize. Interested in pitching? Visit https://smrchamber.com/hype/
“We are incredibly excited to bring HYPE back for its second year,” said Jasmine Hansen, Events Director and NextGen Program Lead for the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber. “Southwest Michigan is full of creative, driven individuals who are ready to make their mark. HYPE provides not just a stage for their ideas, but also the community and resources to help their businesses grow. This event is about sparking opportunities and celebrating possibilities.”
Arthur Havlicek, President & CEO of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, added: “HYPE is a direct investment in the future of our local economy. When we support young entrepreneurs, we’re not just funding businesses—we’re fueling innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening our community for generations to come.”
Attendance is free, but a suggested $5.00 donation will support the continued growth and expansion of HYPE, ensuring more opportunities for young professionals in the years ahead. Seating is limited, and RSVPs are required. To RSVP or explore sponsorship opportunities, visit: https://www.ticketsignup.io/TicketEvent/HYPE2025. Tickets officially open Monday, September 15th, 2025.
Sponsorship contributions can also be submitted as tax-deductible donations through the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber Foundation—making it a powerful way to support the next generation of entrepreneurs while receiving financial benefits.
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