The application window for the 2026 Hatch Bloomington Loves Local program has officially closed, and excitement is building for the next phase of the competition.
City staff are now reviewing applications to identify the Top 25 businesses for the judging panel. Between July 14 - July 20, judges will evaluate submissions before announcing the Top 10 on July 22. Those finalists will pitch their businesses to judges and the public on July 29.
On August 5, up to five Bloomington businesses will be selected to receive a portion of the $100,000 to help them grow, refresh or take their next step.
“We know small businesses are a vital part of Bloomington,” said Bloomington Mayor Tim Busse. “The applications we received this year speak to the breadth and dynamic nature of our business community.”
Originally launched as a single winner pitch competition, Hatch Bloomington evolved in 2026 to invest directly in up to five existing Bloomington-based small businesses.
Follow Hatch Bloomington excitement at hatchbloomington.com.
