TC SOUP

 
 

A Different Kind of Small Biz Pitch Event

TC SOUP is a brand new, grassroots small business pitch event which celebrates community support and abundance over scarcity.

Our event is modeled after the very successful Detroit SOUPs. It’s a public dinner, it’s a platform for connection, a democratic experiment in micro-funding, an opportunity to support entrepreneurs and changemakers in Traverse City.

The Format

You will be greeted by live music as you enter The Alluvion and find your way to a communal table. Then, four very early-stage small businesses will present for four minutes apiece, each also taking four minutes to answer audience questions.

We’ll then break for a delicious meal prepared by a local emerging chef as the music continues. Over dinner, you will discuss with your table-mates the merits of the four presentations. Everyone will cast their vote, and the winner will be announced, receiving seed funding to support their venture and vision!

This is an intimate event, with only 50 seats available.

"Small is good, small is all. There is a conversation in this room that only these people at this moment can have. Find it."

-adriane maree brown


 

2023 TC SOUP Participants

  • Kyle O’Neill
    kyle@kindnessismycurrency.com www.kindnessismycurrency.com

    A philanthropic lifestyle apparel brand working to promote everyday kindness. The world can be a lot better place with just a little more kindness in it from everyone - so give all your kindness away everyday.

  • Amber Hasan
    mycupofteasshop@gmail.com
    mycupofteas.com
    @Mycupofteasshop

    At My Cup Of Teas, we believe that tea has the power to bring people together, uplift our spirits, and nurture our well-being. Through our passion for tea, culture, healing, and leisure, we aspire to create a community where you can find respite, inspiration, and a deeper connection to yourself and the world around you. Welcome to My Cup Of Teas—the beginning of a beautiful journey filled with remarkable flavors, rich traditions, and moments of blissful tranquility.

  • Qayum Qayumi
    qayum2907@gmail.com
    Afghan-owned, multi-generation small tailor business. Proficient in all type of sewing repairs.

  • Susis Grace & Broc Wodzien
    grace@valorskincare.com

    We're shaping Valor Products as an ESG, consumer goods company. We specialize in crafting robust, outdoor-oriented surfaces, employing upcycled materials sourced from Grand Traverse Canvas Works. These surfaces are designed to thrive in outdoor settings, capable of withstanding all types of weather, from sun and heavy rain to snow and everything in between. Our product line enhances outdoor experiences and does so with a deliberate design approach that ensures each pad is versatile. This approach reflects our commitment to moving away from consumerism and addressing the waste issue.

2024 TC SOUP Participants

  • Brett Sigworth
    heartbeat@weheartlocal.co
    weheartlocal.co
    @heartbeatweheartlocal

    We Heart Local revolutionizes local commerce by fostering real-time connections between small businesses and customers. By transforming excess inventory into opportunities for community engagement and distinct experiences, it serves at the heartbeat of Traverse City. The interactions nudge users to get active, get involved, meet people, connect and engage.

  • Lucy Waechter Webb
    lucyappel@gmail.com
    firelightembodiment.com
    @firelightembodiment

    I work at the intersections of spirit, embodiment and justice to support the emergence of a liberated future for all of us. With the body at the center, I partner with people to discover more of what they long for and cultivate purposeful practice to support them to embody that change. Through body-based coaching, ritual guidance, and anti-racism consulting & training Firelight is an offering to support the emergence our collective liberation. Let's get free together.

  • Nick Olson
    nick@hearthsauna.com
    hearthsauna.com
    @hearthsauna

    A clean and professional Nordic Sauna and Ice Baths. We bring the social, mental, and physical health benefits of these activities while building a community.

  • Oliser Terry-Dye
    info@howlingherbs.com
    Howlingherbs.com

    Howling Herbs, an herbal pet care company created by passion of three siblings aged 13, 11, and 9. These young entrepreneurs have cultivated a love for both pets and nature, crafting a unique line of herbal products to enhance the well-being of furry friends, starting with an herbal tea line for dogs. With a youthful curiosity and a commitment to the environment. Howling Herbs not only brings joy to pets and their owners, but also empowers these siblings to explore their entrepreneurial spirit, proving that even the youngest hearts can create big dreams for the pet-loving community.

2024 TC SOUP Sponsors!

We couldn’t do it without you!

  • Archiesfresh.com
    @archiesfresh
    Don’t miss their amazing brunch!

  • Meg.zammit@c21nortland.com
    Megzammit.com
    231-360-4382

    Realtor, Northern Navigator, all around awesome human!

  • danablack.org

    Union stage/TV/film/voiceover actor of over 20 years. Dana loves helping others hone their story and their messaging. Contact her for professional coaching!