LANSING, Mich. — (Oct. 20, 2025) The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) celebrated the graduation of nine local entrepreneurs from its Elevate and Ascend business accelerator programs. These six-month long programs equip established business owners with practical tools and tailored mentorship to scale their businesses, create jobs, and drive regional economic prosperity.
Both programs are funded through LEAP’s TREK Small Business Support Hub via the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
Since inception, the Elevate and Ascend programs have supported dozens of businesses across mid-Michigan. Based on 2025 data, program participants and alumni collectively generated more than $4.45 million in revenue, secured $353,000 in outside investment, created 18 new full-time jobs, launched 91 new products or services, and led 11 business expansion events across the region. Together, these outcomes demonstrate how LEAP’s small business support translates directly into tangible regional growth across the tri-county region.
LEAP President and CEO Bob Trezise added that programs like Elevate and Ascend are foundational to regional prosperity and wealth building through small business success.
“While LEAP continues to attract and grow large businesses to our regional economy, the work of our Small Business and Innovation team is generating hundreds of new small businesses into the foundation of our economy,” said Trezise. “Graduating nine companies this week represents new jobs, investment, tax base and momentum for the Lansing region. It is very difficult to get into these programs and to successfully complete rigorous training, so congrats to each of these important graduate business owners.”
LEAP leaders emphasize that equitable entrepreneurship is central to a thriving regional economy. Tony Willis, chief equity development officer at LEAP, added, “These programs are designed to make sure we have a thriving economy where all entrepreneurs can succeed. We want to ensure that entrepreneurs of all demographics have access to the resources they need to grow and build wealth right here in the Lansing region.”
Graduates say the programs provided critical access to capital, connections, and confidence to expand.
Darla Bishop, founder of Finansis, LLC and a graduate of the Elevate program, shared, “I decided to start my business and the ecosystem of business owners and support has been fantastic. It’s allowed me to punch well above my weight for a company of my size and my age. I am in two national competitions thanks to the support that I’ve gotten from LEAP and other programs here in the Lansing area.”
Brianna Garrett, owner of Bubbles R Fun and graduate of the Ascend program, added, “LEAP’s programs and investments are helping businesses grow. When businesses grow they are making more money. They are better able to stimulate the economy. They are able to hire more people. I’ve been able to hire more people. Thank you LEAP!”
2025 Elevate and Ascend Graduates
Elevate Cohort 4
• Kahleea Washington – Sweet Lee’s Teas
• Shara Trierweiler – Agape Organic Farms
• Terry Cannon – CHR Services
• Darla Bishop – Finansis, LLC
Ascend Cohort 2
• Brandy Gonzales – THIS AINT THAT LLC
• Selina Terry – Las Morenas
• Colton Hughes – Element Massage
• Brianna Garrett – Bubbles R Fun
• Matheus Borges – UBIVIS
For more information about LEAP’s small business and equity programs, visit https://www.purelansing.com/
