Detroit Grand Prix Showcases Local Entrepreneurs in 2025 Small Business Straightaway

In 2025, the Straightaway will shift to Woodward Avenue near Campus Martius Park, creating a vibrant hub for businesses across all seven Detroit districts—ranging from startups to beloved neighborhood mainstays. (CDGP Photo)

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	In 2025, the Straightaway will shift to Woodward Avenue near Campus Martius Park, creating a vibrant hub for businesses across all seven Detroit districts—ranging from startups to beloved neighborhood mainstays. (CDGP Photo)
	Detroit Grand Prix Showcases Local Entrepreneurs in 2025 Small Business Straightaway HB Meeks/Sports Editor Tell Us Detroit DETROIT - The Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix (CDGP) presented by Lear is making strides in supporting Detroit’s local economy with the return of its Small Business Straightaway initiative in 2025. This program, which has grown into a staple of the Grand Prix’s Community Partnership efforts, will feature 15 locally owned businesses, offering race attendees a unique opportunity to shop, engage, and support Detroit entrepreneurs. In 2025, the Straightaway will shift to Woodward Avenue near Campus Martius Park, creating a vibrant hub for businesses across all seven Detroit districts—ranging from startups to beloved neighborhood mainstays. The event, now in its third consecutive year, remains committed to fostering economic inclusion, highlighting BIPOC-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses as well as those operating outside the downtown core. Among this year’s featured vendors are Pink Poodle Bridal, owned by Raeshawn Bumphers, a former automotive professional who turned her passion for wedding planning into a thriving boutique, and Lorraine’s Premium BBQ Sauce, founded by Larry Crockett, who carries on his family's backyard grilling tradition with a line of organic, non-GMO sauces. Here’s the full list of small businesses participating in the 2025 Small Business Straightaway at the Detroit Grand Prix: Lorraine's Premium BBQ Sauce – Organic, non-GMO, gluten-free barbecue sauces Pink Poodle Bridal – Full-service bridal and formalwear boutique Peteca Mych – Unique handmade accessories and gifts Detroit Hives – Urban beekeeping and honey-based products Detroitorant – Locally made, natural deodorant brand George Gregory – Men’s fashion boutique offering stylish apparel Yubehandmade – Artisan-crafted jewelry and accessories 8 Ball Imaging Apparel – Custom apparel and printing services Jai’s Lemonade Company – Fresh, locally made lemonade brand Good Cakes and Bakes – Detroit-based bakery specializing in organic treats Love Travels Imports – Ethically sourced artisan products from around the world Phil Simpson The Smile Brand – Artistic designs and apparel promoting positivity Pawstries – Locally made gourmet pet treats DeMaciiio – Fashion and accessories with bold Detroit-inspired designs Detroit Forever 313 – Apparel celebrating Detroit pride and culture This lineup showcases Detroit's diverse entrepreneurial spirit, with businesses spanning fashion, food, beauty, and craftsmanship. Through the generous backing of Community Partners such as Delta Airlines, DTE Foundation, and Huntington Bank, the Grand Prix helps underwrite costs for participating vendors, ensuring they receive maximum exposure during the event. The program also aims to drive foot traffic beyond the Grand Prix, benefiting the 260+ local businesses within walking distance of the downtown racing circuit. The Grand Prix’s commitment to sustainability continues in 2025, with efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and expand eco-friendly initiatives. The event maintains its gold-level certification from the Council for Responsible Sport, using advanced technologies to increase waste diversion and recycling. The 35th Grand Prix in Detroit’s history will be held on the Streets of Downtown Detroit circuit from May 30-June 1, 2025, providing attendees with new viewing options, entertainment packages, and expanded fan experiences. Tickets are available at DetroitGP.com or by calling 888-811-PRIX (7749).