A Salute to Entrepreneurs: Creativity and Community at Its Heart
“These entrepreneurs represent the creativity, resilience, and community impact that reSET holds at the core of our work,” remarked Sarah Bodley, reSET’s Executive Director. Their spirit shines whether in innovative flavors or unique retail experiences. Each participant worked immensely hard to hone their skills and is ready to scale their ventures.
Food Accelerator: A Feast of Innovation
In early November, Parkville Market played host to eleven spirited Food Accelerator businesses. Attendees savored diverse dishes and listened to live pitches before casting their votes.
Winners of the Foodie Demo Day
-
Suleman “Sully” Dode of Paki Taco wowed the crowd with his inimitable Butter Chicken Gordita Crunch, earning first place.
-
Brittney Michelle Williams from Brittney’s Famous Alabama Kitchen secured second place with her flavourful, yet low-sodium Gullah Red Rice.
-
There was a tie for third place between Empanadictas, helmed by Marta Bibiana Garcia Barrios, and Los Barbados, led by Mark and Marisa Belgrave with their delectable fish cakes.
The Program’s Backbone
The 12-week hybrid program offered hands-on support, mentorship, and community connections to 12 entrepreneurs. Topics ranged from customer insight and business models to sustainable scaling and storytelling. Thanks to Liberty Bank and CTSBDC, this year included a crucial financial education component.
Grants and Prizes
Entrepreneurs, upon completion, could apply for up to $2,000 in grants. The top four businesses shared over $2,500 in prizes funded by DECD and audience donations.
The Floor–Plan Retail Incubator: Crafting Retail Success
In Hartford, later in the month, the Floor-Plan Retail Incubator showcased ten burgeoning entrepreneurs. Their creative pitches were met with audience enthusiasm.
Standout Participants
-
Posh Paint, by Candace Donaldson, seized first place. This mobile party business has enriched Hartford’s community for almost a decade through art.
-
Kobo Studio took second. Founded by Hanae Ko, it’s noted for its unique cat-themed merchandise and support for cat rescues.
-
TYLER CLUB 29 landed third. Established by Lucius Downey, it offers valuable educational resources focusing on children’s literature.
-
A tie for fourth included Bok Choy Studios by Hendrick Xiong, and Montage Station + Co. led by Anne Powers.
Supporting a Retail Revolution
Participants received mentorship, legal and financial guidance, and were eligible for $700 grants. The top five entrants shared over $2,500, funded by DECD and audience contributions. This incubator enhances retail businesses with pivotal resources and strategic insights.
reSET: A Beacon for Social Enterprise
Established in 2007, reSET stands as a non-profit champion in Hartford, CT. Its mission is to grow the social enterprise sector and foster inclusive entrepreneurship. In a significant expansion, reSET acquired Collab in 2025, merging strengths for a more comprehensive ecosystem. Specialising in impact-driven businesses, it offers programs and a co-working space fostering innovation.
Thousands have benefited from reSET and Collab, either directly through aid to over 500 businesses or indirectly through broader initiatives. Discover more at reSET.
