By Zoe Schantz
The Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation is pleased to announce that Finn Gomez (’25, College of Communications Arts and Sciences) is the 2024 Kaufman Family Scholar. Gomez is the founder of Detroit Salsa Company.
The Kaufman Family Scholarship, established by Brandon and Barbara Kaufman, supports exemplary student venturers at Michigan State University as they build startups and nonprofits focused on social good.
Early Beginnings
Gomez’s story begins in Wyandotte, Michigan, just south of Detroit. He grew up in a tight-knit family, surrounded by a supportive network that encouraged his diverse interests. At Roosevelt High School, Finn was deeply involved in music, playing jazz trumpet in the marching band. However, his entrepreneurial spirit was already budding during his middle school years when he founded the Detroit Salsa Company.
The Journey of Music and Business
Upon graduating from high school, Gomez faced a crossroads. Uncertain about his future, he decided to pursue his passion for music and enrolled at Michigan State University. Initially accepted into the classical music program, he later transitioned to jazz trumpet, showcasing his adaptability and dedication.
Despite the rigorous demands of his music studies, Finn’s entrepreneurial drive remained strong. “I was constantly thinking about how to continue Detroit Salsa while pursuing my degree,” he recalls. Through networking with professors and friends, he managed to integrate his business into his life at MSU, where some of his professors even became repeat clients.
A Family’s Influence and Resilience
Gomez attributes much of his success to his family’s unwavering support. His father, a former automotive stylist, played a crucial role in nurturing his entrepreneurial spirit. “My dad was always the guy who loved to teach us new things,” Gomez shares. After his father lost his job in 2021, the family relied on Detroit Salsa Company as their primary source of income, which added a layer of urgency and commitment to the business.
The influence of his grandmother, Grandma Gomez, is also significant. A hardworking and personable individual, she has been a constant source of inspiration for Gomez. “She’s the hardest worker I know and knows someone everywhere we go,” said Gomez.
Beyond Profit and Recognition
For Gomez, being an entrepreneur is about more than making money or gaining recognition. “It’s genuinely about the experiences we get out of it,” he explains. The joy of seeing people enjoy his product and the sense of community it fosters is what drives him. Reflecting on the impact of his business, he notes, “Last year, we sold over 60,000 units of salsa, reaching at least 100,000 people. Knowing that our family name is attached to that is incredibly inspiring.”
Gomez’s background in music has significantly influenced his approach to business. “Being a musician teaches you to build your brand, hone your skills, and market yourself,” said Gomez. This creative foundation has equipped him with the flexibility and adaptability essential for entrepreneurship. “You can’t always predict what’s going to happen, so you need to be ready to adapt quickly.”
How the Burgess Institute Has Fueled Innovation
The Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation has been nothing short of a game-changer in Gomez’s journey. Initially skeptical, he was captivated by the wealth of resources and opportunities offered by the Burgess Institute. “It feels unreal how much support they offer,” said Gomez. From mentorship programs to networking events, the Burgess Institute has given Gomez a place for his innovative spirit to thrive.
Through its vast network of industry leaders, mentors, and fellow entrepreneurs, Gomez has been able to forge meaningful relationships and glean valuable insights that have propelled Detroit Salsa Company to new heights. "I've met with leaders in the industry who have become mentors and collaborators," Gomez shares. "Their guidance and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of my business."
The Impact of the Kaufman Family Scholarship
Receiving the Kaufman Family Scholarship has been a pivotal moment in Gomez's entrepreneurial journey. Beyond the financial assistance it provides, the scholarship represents validation and recognition of his hard work and dedication. "It's not just about the money," Gomez emphasizes, "but about the belief and support that comes with it."
The scholarship has allowed Gomez to make tangible investments in his business, such as acquiring essential equipment like a new refrigerator. This expansion is not merely about growth but also about sustainability and resilience. "The scholarship is already being used to expand our operations," Gomez explains, "allowing us to double our business by adding necessary equipment like a new refrigerator."
The scholarship serves as a catalyst for further growth and innovation. With a newfound sense of confidence and resources at his disposal, Gomez is empowered to explore new opportunities and reach even greater heights with Detroit Salsa Company. "It's a game-changer," he acknowledges, "and it's propelling us towards a future of continued success and impact."
Future Perspectives
While Gomez remains focused on the present, he is optimistic about the future. Guided by the wisdom of his mentors and his own experiences, he is determined to continue building Detroit Salsa Company. “All I can do is work towards the life I’ve dreamed of, taking it one day at a time,” he said.
To check out more on Finn Gomez’s story, head to https://www.detroitsalsa.com/home.