Community collaborations may take time to assemble, but that makes for all the more hands clapping when things come together. More than 100 sets of hands applauded the opening of the
City of East Lansing and MSU project “The Hatch” on Thursday in the Technology Innovation Center.
It was back in 2009 when an advisory committee identified a need for a business incubator for college students. After considering such spaces as the SCENE Metrospace, the team settled on a 1,200 square foot space on the top floor of the TIC.
The Hatch will be available to higher education students from any learning institution. Services available from The Hatch include a mailing address, conference rooms, co-working space, use of office resources, mentorship from msuENet and business consultation.
“This isn’t just for technology businesses,” says Smith. “This could be perfect for the design student who is looking to start a clothing line.”
Smith and his MSU partners believe The Hatch will prove to be an invaluable tool for fostering local entrepreneurship. MSU has invested $90,000 over three years to fund to the project, and the city will contribute staff time and the TIC space.
“We’re not saying they’re going to graduate and their business is going to take off,” says Smith. “We’re giving students an opportunity and encouraging their creativity and problem solving.”
The Hatch opened with ten student businesses already approved to operate and has room for another fifteen. Students interested in The Hatch can find applications on their
website.
Source: Jeff Smith, City of East Lansing
Writer: Natalie Burg, News Editor
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