Six student-led startups from Michigan State University will showcase their products at the 16th annual Making It In Michigan (MIIM) Trade Show on May 7, from 11:00 a.m to 3:30 p.m at the Lansing Center. Hosted by the MSU Product Center and sponsored by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), MIIM is the state’s premier event for food and agriculture entrepreneurs to connect, sell, and promote their Michigan-made products.
The five Spartan ventures, supported by MSU’s Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, will join more than 200 vendors and exhibitors showcasing their products and making valuable industry connections, all with the goal of growing Michigan’s economy
Among the 200+ exhibitors, these MSU student startups will proudly showcase their products at the 2025 MIIM Trade Show:
Baking by Jade
Jade McLellan, Eli Broad College of Business
Baking By Jade is a Rochester Hills-based home bakery run by Jade McLellan, specializing in homemade custom cakes, cupcakes, cookies, pies, and other treats. Known for her creative, made-to-order desserts, Jade offers seasonal and event-themed bakes, such as graduation cookies and cupcakes.
Bros 'n Dough
Gavin Green, Eli Broad College of Business
Bros 'n Dough Inc. is a family-owned business based in Oxford, Michigan, dedicated to crafting delicious handmade stuffed bagels. Made from scratch with care, our bagels come in three mouthwatering flavors: Bacon Cheddar, Jalapeño Cheddar, and Apple Cinnamon. Perfect for busy mornings, quick snacks, or food service needs, they’re conveniently sold frozen in cases of 6 single-serve bags or a bulk 15-pack for commercial use. We take pride in delivering high-quality, flavorful bagels that bring a homemade touch to every bite.
CocoMar
Fatima Taha, Eli Broad College of Business, Breno Tepedino, Eli Broad College of Business, Valentina Sgrillo, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources
CocoMar offers a unique line of ready-to-drink protein smoothies made with real fruits and hydrating coconut water. Designed for a healthy, on-the-go lifestyle, our smoothies provide 20g of complete isolate protein, natural electrolytes, fiber, and antioxidants—without added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Our initial launch features Açaí with Blueberry and Dragon Fruit with Mango, both bursting with tropical flavor and real nutrition. Inspired by the vibrant fruit culture of Brazil, CocoMar blends premium ingredients to create delicious, functional beverages that fuel your body and support overall wellness. Enjoy a refreshing, nutrient-packed boost with CocoMar!
Detroit Salsa Company
Finn Gomez, College of Communications Arts and Sciences
Detroit Salsa Company is a family-run fourth-generation salsa company that traces its roots back to Corktown, Detroit. We produce fresh, authentic, and local salsa in two variants, tomato-based and guacamole salsa in mild and macho (hot).
macaronza!
Yuktha Pulavarthi, Eli Broad College of Business
macaronza! offers delicious, gluten-free, and fully customizable macarons at an affordable price. After years of perfecting our recipes, we now create fun and unique flavors for any occasion, making them the perfect treat for yourself or a loved one!
ZolliCandy
Alina Morse, Eli Broad College of Business
ZolliCandy is a zero sugar, allergen free, diabetic-friendly, KETO candy founded by teenage entrepreneur and Michigan State student, Alina Morse. With a variety of teeth cleaning candies including Zollipops, Zaffi Taffy, Zolli Caramelz, Zolli Gum Popz, Zolli Gummeez, and more, Zolli's mission is to continue to innovate all-inclusive candy for everyone to enjoy. ZolliCandy is the #1 selling sugar-free candy sold on Amazon.com and can be found in over 15,000 retailers nationwide as well as over 15 countries. As a women owned and caused based organization Zolli helps support oral health education while satisfying sweet cravings for all ages.
To view the full 2025 vendor list, visit the MSU Product Center.
General admission to the trade show is free, with members of the public encouraged to walk around, interact with food vendors and enjoy many opportunities for free samples of delicious food and beverages all made in Michigan.