On December 15th, military veterans from Michigan pitched and presented their business ideas at the brand-new Innovation Hub in Battle Creek. This event marked a milestone for MVE-Lab (Michigan Veteran Entrepreneurship Lab) as it was the first cohort to be hosted at the Innovation Hub.
Participants spent 12 weeks brainstorming, researching, and developing their ventures through the MVE-Lab program, offered through Grand Valley’s DeVos Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation (CEI) and in partnership with Battle Creek Unlimited. Since its launch in 2018, MVE-Lab has successfully trained over 200 veterans and their families in 15 cohorts and five different regions in Michigan.
Matthew Putman, owner of Strain Guard LLC, summarized MVE-Lab as an “outstanding program.” He highlighted the role of the Innovation Hub and the “phenomenal people” who supported the veteran entrepreneurs throughout their journey.
On the night of the pitch event, John Capers, owner of Pop’s Family Kitchen, took home the Judges’ Award of $6,000. A local favorite in Battle Creek, Pop’s Family Kitchen is a family-owned homestyle restaurant with award-winning recipes and a commitment to tradition.
John’s journey with barbecue began at the age of eight, learning the art of barbecue from his uncle and traditional Tennessee-style sides from the women in his family. Starting from an act of love, he prepared food for over 100 neighbors from his own home. John took that act of love and leveraged it as the foundation for his thriving business.
“This MVE-Lab cohort was a powerful reminder of why this work matters,” said Amy Hilton, Program Manager for Entrepreneurship Initiatives at GVSU in Battle Creek.
She added that the program provided a unique environment where veteran entrepreneurs could grow in confidence, refine their business ideas, and support one another. Their progress throughout the 12 weeks reinforced the importance of creating professional spaces where learning, service, and community intersect.
“It was a privilege to support this cohort and witness the resilience, leadership, and commitment they brought to every session.”
Below are the veteran participants, their businesses, and the prize money received, respectively:
Judges’ Awards:
First place: John Capers – Pop’s Family Kitchen ($6,000)
Second place: Jordan Edwards – JJ’s Sweet Treats ($3,500)
Third place: Matthew Putman – Strain Guard LLC ($2,000)
Fourth place: Lakeea Kelly – CrownedLady Athletic ($1,500)
People’s Choice Award:
First place: Thomas Walk – Mental Health Through Art ($900)
Second place: William Richards – VetACon ($550)
Third place: Raven Campbell – Church Bros BBQ Co. ($500)
Fourth place: Margaret Kirk – Esthe’ Lips ($350)
NEU 