Program is driving economic mobility and strengthening the Lansing region’s small business ecosystem
Lansing, Mich. (May 8, 2025) — The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) proudly celebrates the graduation of the tenth cohort of entrepreneurs from its One and All entrepreneurship program.
This program equips aspiring business owners from all walks of life with tools to turn ideas into sustainable ventures—fueling local economies and building generational opportunity across the Tri-County region.
Funded through LEAP’s TREK Small Business Support Hub via the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and with seed funding support championed by Senator Sarah Anthony and State Representative Angela Witwer, One and All offers an intensive two-month journey that blends business fundamentals with coaching, mentorship, and peer collaboration. Participants graduate with a solid business plan, a growing network, and a $2,500 seed grant to help launch or expand their ventures.
LEAP’s President and CEO, Bob Trezise, emphasized the broader implications of the program.
“A major part of our future is continuing to build a foundation of startups and entrepreneurial spirit, from all populations and areas of our three counties. One and All is a shining example of how we can unlock creative potential, and build business, jobs, and tax base while uplifting entire communities,” said Trezise.
Ramon Vela, founder of Snow Stars, launched his business to create a better future for his daughter while introducing Mid-Michigan to authentic block shave ice—a treat he grew up with but saw missing in his community. “Before One and All, I had the idea and the passion, but no real roadmap,” said Vela. “The program gave me direction, confidence, and real support. It didn’t just help my business—it changed the course of my life.”
The program is made possible by cross-sector support. The MEDC, through the TREK Small Business Support Hub, funded program operations, while Senator Sarah Anthony championed 2024 state appropriation dollars to fund the seed grants awarded to each graduate.
“I’m incredibly proud of the Cohort 10 participants of the One and All program,” said Jazmin Anderson, Director of Small Business and Equity Programs at LEAP. “Watching these entrepreneurs grow, overcome challenges, pivot, and bring their visions to life has been nothing short of inspiring. Their passion, resilience, and commitment to building stronger communities through business are exactly why this program exists, and I can’t wait to see the storefronts and spaces they fill next.”
“I was proud to support the development of One and All, a program designed to empower aspiring business owners and drive equitable economic growth,” said Senator Sarah Anthony. “This program is a prime example of the entrepreneurial spirit that makes our state so vibrant. Through intentional investment and mentorship, One and All will help grow the next generation of small business owners who I am very confident will have a lasting impact on our region and our state.”
Cohort 10 graduates include:
- Jafar Alzuhairi
- Gabrielle Bolton
- Kiyuana Chappell
- Quiana Davis-Lewis
- Andrea Hill
- Joanna Hwang
- Jasmine Mathews
- Tamisha Robinson
- Ramon Vela, Snow Stars
- Sahnya McKinley-Stigler
The One and All program equips participants with critical business skills in areas such as planning, marketing, and financial management. Through peer collaboration, one-on-one mentorship, and access to a thriving entrepreneurial network, the program turns business ideas into sustainable ventures and creates pathways to lasting economic opportunity.
Through its ten cohorts, One and All has supported more than 170 entrepreneurs. These emerging business owners are contributing to a more resilient and opportunity-filled Lansing region.
To learn more or support the One & All program, visit www.purelansing.com/oneandall.
