KALAMAZOO – Catalyst University is now accepting applications for its 2nd annual Makers’ Mart competition scheduled for January 28, 2016, at Wings Event Center. The winning maker will win $2,500 in cash plus $2,500 worth of legal, marketing and accounting consultations. The application deadline closes October 2.

Last year’s Makers’ Mart winner was Handmade Kalamazoo. Melissa Al-Azzawi and Bailey Mead, the team behind the Handmade Kalamazoo brand, shared how the competition helped make their dream a reality: “Through the Catalyst University Makers’ Mart competition, we developed new relationships that inspired the opportunity to launch a new retail space in Kalamazoo – Main & Drake – a weekend makers market featuring local Southwest Michigan makers, small brands, food start-ups and musicians year-round.”

Other 2015 finalists for the Catalyst University Makers’ Mart included Lush Gourmet, Damn Handsome Grooming Co., Mamaleelu Cold Brew and Pop City Popcorn.

“The Makers’ Mart competition allows our community of leaders at Catalyst University to lift up entrepreneurs by sharing our platform with them,” said Ron Kitchens, CEO of Southwest Michigan First. “Not only will we honor one winner with cash and prizes, but our anticipated 2,500 attendees will support these small businesses through buying their products and services during the event, ultimately boosting our region’s economy.”

The Catalyst University team will select four finalists to tell their story via video this fall. The videos will be shared on social media and during Catalyst University 2016 in January. Attendees will cast their votes onsite at Wings Event Center on the day of Catalyst University, and the winning maker will be announced live, onstage at the event.

Eligibility requirements for companies looking to enter the competition include:

Must sell an existing product or service for consumer purchase

Must be a company owned and operated in Southwest Michigan

Must have annual sales of $500,000 or less

Must be able to attend Catalyst University in Kalamazoo, MI on January 28, 2016

Must display/sell products or services at Catalyst University

Applications for the Makers’ Mart can be submitted through October 2 at 5:00 pm EST at www.catalystuniversity.me/makers-mart-2016.