Redesigned in 2026 to support the existing small-business community in Bloomington
The Hatch Bloomington Top 10 Finalists pitched their businesses on Wednesday, July 29th
The City of Bloomington and a panel of local business leaders and community representatives have selected the 10 businesses advancing in the 2026 Hatch Bloomington Loves Local program.
The following businesses presented their pitches, live, during Hatch Bloomington Loves Local Pitch Event:
Ado's Auto Body Collision and Repair Center
Afghan Darbar
Bloomington Brewery & Taproom (Nine Mile Brewing Co.)
Bloomington Garden Center and Landscape Company
Bloomington Mow and Snow
Rise Up Nutrition
Shifa Metro Clinic
TBS Mart International Foods
The Great Steak
Zeke's Place
Stay tuned for the winner(s) announcement the week of August 3rd, 2026.
If you weren’t able to catch it live, you can watch the event recap here!
Learn About the Hatch Bloomington Pitch Competition
The City of Bloomington announces Hatch Bloomington Loves Local, a special 2026 edition of its annual Hatch Bloomington business pitch competition.
This year, instead of providing an award for one new business concept, Hatch Bloomington Loves Local will provide financial assistance for up to five existing Bloomington businesses. The change reflects Bloomington’s commitment to supporting local businesses and jobs during a challenging period for many small-business owners.
Total financial assistance administered will be $100,000.
“We know small businesses are a vital part of Bloomington’s economy and community,” said Bloomington Mayor Tim Busse. “This year, we wanted Hatch Bloomington to focus on supporting the businesses that are already here, employing our residents and serving our neighborhoods. Hatch Bloomington Loves Local is one way we can invest directly in their continued success.”
The application portal opened June 10th and closed July 6th, 2026, with a Top 10 Pitch Event on July 29th.
100,000 reasons to enter Hatch Bloomington
