Top 4 entrepreneurs to compete on June 11 for startup funds and business support to open a brick-and-mortar location

DETROIT, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown, the small business competition behind many of Detroit’s most popular neighborhood storefronts, has announced the Top 4 businesses advancing to the final stage of the 2025 competition.

These four entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to compete in the Hatch Off, where they will pitch their businesses for the chance to win $100,000 in startup funding from Comerica Bank to open a brick-and-mortar location in Detroit, Hamtramck or Highland Park. The winner will also receive a business support package from TechTown Detroit, Wayne State University’s entrepreneurship hub.

“The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown continues to foster small business development by supporting Hatch winners and program alumni on their entrepreneurial journeys,” said Christianne Malone, Assistant Vice President for Economic Development at Wayne State University and Chief Program Officer of TechTown Detroit. “We can’t wait to see where each of these contestants go as they nurture their businesses and drive revitalization, supported by their local communities.”

Below are the Top Four businesses competing to win the 2025 Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest:

  • Detroit Culture & Clay: Detroit Culture & Clay is a one stop for all things clay. Guests can enjoy paint and sips, hands-on learning and a full stock of ceramic supplies, while also supporting local artists by purchasing their unique work.
  • Halie & Co: Halie & Co is a handmade jewelry, candle, and home fragrance store with the belief that everyone should have access to affordable jewelry and goods that make them feel beautiful and are created with high-quality materials and intention. Halie & Co creates experiences through permanent jewelry and jewelry making workshops, giving customers the perfect way to be a part of the creation process.
  • Livy’s Sweet Rolls: Livy’s Sweet Rolls specializes in handcrafted gourmet cinnamon rolls made from scratch with nostalgic, high-quality ingredients. Inspired by a family tradition of wholesome baking, Livy’s Sweet Rolls offers better-for-you desserts free from preservatives, dyes, and artificial junk. Its mission is to spread joy through premium sweet treats that families can trust, enjoy, and create memories around.
  • Walter Pat’s Bakery Cafe: Walter Pat’s Bakery Cafe is a seasonally driven, small-batch, black woman-owned bakery in Detroit. The cafe focuses on Michigan seasonal produce and specific flavors from Midwest upbringing and southern influence. Walter Pat’s strives to showcase unique flavor combinations and delicious classics, as well as to broaden taste buds with a new experience through food.

The final round of public voting begins Monday, June 2 at noon and runs through the end of the pitch competition at the Hatch Off on Wednesday, June 11. There, the Top 4 entrepreneurs will present their business plans in front of a panel of expert judges and a live audience. Community members can vote for their favorite businesses once per day by visiting HatchDetroit.com. The winner of the 2025 Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest will be chosen through a combination of the public’s vote and judges’ deliberations.

Over the years, the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown has helped launch some of Detroit’s most successful and well-known businesses, including winners G.L.A.M. Body Scrubs (2024), Bouncing Around The Motor City (2023), Little Liberia (2022), 27th Letter Books (2019), Baobab Fare (2017), Meta Physica Massage (2016), Sister Pie (2014), Batch Brewing Company (2013) and La Feria (2012).

With this year’s contributions and grants, Comerica and the Comerica Charitable Foundation have invested approximately $1.3 million into Hatch Detroit since it first began supporting the small business program in 2012.

“Entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of thriving communities, and supporting their dreams is critical to building strong, sustainable local economies,” said Meghan Storey, Senior Vice President, Michigan Director of Small Business at Comerica Bank. “As we enter the next phase of the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown, we are getting to know more about the new small businesses who will help transform their neighborhoods. It is clear the future is very bright for these entrepreneurs, who are showcasing their passion and inspiration for their businesses and community.”

Tickets are now available to attend the Hatch Off and see the winner crowned. The Hatch Off takes place on Wednesday, June 11 at 6 p.m., at the Wayne State University Industry Innovation Center at 461 Burroughs Street in Detroit. To purchase your ticket to the Hatch Off, visit HatchDetroit.com.

Comerica Bank, a subsidiary of Comerica Incorporated, has served Michigan longer than any other bank with a continuous presence dating back over 175 years to its Detroit founding in 1849. It is the largest bank employer in metro Detroit and has more than 4,300 employees (FTE) statewide. With one of the largest banking center networks in Michigan, Comerica nurtures lifelong relationships with unwavering integrity and financial prudence. Comerica positively impacts the lives of Michigan residents by helping customers be successful, providing financial support that assists hundreds of charitable organizations, and actively participating in Detroit’s downtown revitalization. Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA) is a financial services company strategically aligned by three business segments: The Commercial Bank, The Retail Bank, and Wealth Management. Follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Comerica, X: @ComericaBank and Instagram: @comerica_bank.

TechTown Detroit, Wayne State University’s entrepreneurship hub, is a nonprofit business service organization that provides programs, education and resources for early- to growth-stage small businesses and tech entrepreneurs. By building bridges for entrepreneurs to succeed, TechTown is accelerating an inclusive economy for Detroit and Southeast Michigan. Since 2007, TechTown has supported more than 6,090 companies, which created 2,277 jobs and raised more than $406 million in startup and growth capital. For more information, visit techtowndetroit.org.

Hatch Detroit supports both existing and new retail initiatives in the cities of Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park. Hatch Detroit was founded in 2011 to give residents and aspiring entrepreneurs an opportunity to have a voice in neighborhood retail development and joined TechTown Detroit’s suite of entrepreneurial programs and services in 2022. Beyond the contest, Hatch Detroit provides funding, exposure and mentoring in support of its alumni entrepreneurs. With support from Hatch Detroit, 50 alumni have opened businesses. They employ over 500 people and have invested over $10 million in economic development. To learn more, visit hatchdetroit.com.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/comerica-hatch-detroit-contest-by-techtown-announces-four-finalists-competing-for-100-000-grand-prize-302466314.html

SOURCE Comerica Bank

Top 4 entrepreneurs to compete on June 11 for startup funds and business support to open a brick-and-mortar location

DETROIT, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown, the small business competition behind many of Detroit’s most popular neighborhood storefronts, has announced the Top 4 businesses advancing to the final stage of the 2025 competition.

These four entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to compete in the Hatch Off, where they will pitch their businesses for the chance to win $100,000 in startup funding from Comerica Bank to open a brick-and-mortar location in Detroit, Hamtramck or Highland Park. The winner will also receive a business support package from TechTown Detroit, Wayne State University’s entrepreneurship hub.

“The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown continues to foster small business development by supporting Hatch winners and program alumni on their entrepreneurial journeys,” said Christianne Malone, Assistant Vice President for Economic Development at Wayne State University and Chief Program Officer of TechTown Detroit. “We can’t wait to see where each of these contestants go as they nurture their businesses and drive revitalization, supported by their local communities.”

Below are the Top Four businesses competing to win the 2025 Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest:

  • Detroit Culture & Clay: Detroit Culture & Clay is a one stop for all things clay. Guests can enjoy paint and sips, hands-on learning and a full stock of ceramic supplies, while also supporting local artists by purchasing their unique work.
  • Halie & Co: Halie & Co is a handmade jewelry, candle, and home fragrance store with the belief that everyone should have access to affordable jewelry and goods that make them feel beautiful and are created with high-quality materials and intention. Halie & Co creates experiences through permanent jewelry and jewelry making workshops, giving customers the perfect way to be a part of the creation process.
  • Livy’s Sweet Rolls: Livy’s Sweet Rolls specializes in handcrafted gourmet cinnamon rolls made from scratch with nostalgic, high-quality ingredients. Inspired by a family tradition of wholesome baking, Livy’s Sweet Rolls offers better-for-you desserts free from preservatives, dyes, and artificial junk. Its mission is to spread joy through premium sweet treats that families can trust, enjoy, and create memories around.
  • Walter Pat’s Bakery Cafe: Walter Pat’s Bakery Cafe is a seasonally driven, small-batch, black woman-owned bakery in Detroit. The cafe focuses on Michigan seasonal produce and specific flavors from Midwest upbringing and southern influence. Walter Pat’s strives to showcase unique flavor combinations and delicious classics, as well as to broaden taste buds with a new experience through food.

The final round of public voting begins Monday, June 2 at noon and runs through the end of the pitch competition at the Hatch Off on Wednesday, June 11. There, the Top 4 entrepreneurs will present their business plans in front of a panel of expert judges and a live audience. Community members can vote for their favorite businesses once per day by visiting HatchDetroit.com. The winner of the 2025 Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest will be chosen through a combination of the public’s vote and judges’ deliberations.

Over the years, the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown has helped launch some of Detroit’s most successful and well-known businesses, including winners G.L.A.M. Body Scrubs (2024), Bouncing Around The Motor City (2023), Little Liberia (2022), 27th Letter Books (2019), Baobab Fare (2017), Meta Physica Massage (2016), Sister Pie (2014), Batch Brewing Company (2013) and La Feria (2012).

With this year’s contributions and grants, Comerica and the Comerica Charitable Foundation have invested approximately $1.3 million into Hatch Detroit since it first began supporting the small business program in 2012.

“Entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of thriving communities, and supporting their dreams is critical to building strong, sustainable local economies,” said Meghan Storey, Senior Vice President, Michigan Director of Small Business at Comerica Bank. “As we enter the next phase of the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown, we are getting to know more about the new small businesses who will help transform their neighborhoods. It is clear the future is very bright for these entrepreneurs, who are showcasing their passion and inspiration for their businesses and community.”

Tickets are now available to attend the Hatch Off and see the winner crowned. The Hatch Off takes place on Wednesday, June 11 at 6 p.m., at the Wayne State University Industry Innovation Center at 461 Burroughs Street in Detroit. To purchase your ticket to the Hatch Off, visit HatchDetroit.com.

Comerica Bank, a subsidiary of Comerica Incorporated, has served Michigan longer than any other bank with a continuous presence dating back over 175 years to its Detroit founding in 1849. It is the largest bank employer in metro Detroit and has more than 4,300 employees (FTE) statewide. With one of the largest banking center networks in Michigan, Comerica nurtures lifelong relationships with unwavering integrity and financial prudence. Comerica positively impacts the lives of Michigan residents by helping customers be successful, providing financial support that assists hundreds of charitable organizations, and actively participating in Detroit’s downtown revitalization. Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA) is a financial services company strategically aligned by three business segments: The Commercial Bank, The Retail Bank, and Wealth Management. Follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Comerica, X: @ComericaBank and Instagram: @comerica_bank.

TechTown Detroit, Wayne State University’s entrepreneurship hub, is a nonprofit business service organization that provides programs, education and resources for early- to growth-stage small businesses and tech entrepreneurs. By building bridges for entrepreneurs to succeed, TechTown is accelerating an inclusive economy for Detroit and Southeast Michigan. Since 2007, TechTown has supported more than 6,090 companies, which created 2,277 jobs and raised more than $406 million in startup and growth capital. For more information, visit techtowndetroit.org.

Hatch Detroit supports both existing and new retail initiatives in the cities of Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park. Hatch Detroit was founded in 2011 to give residents and aspiring entrepreneurs an opportunity to have a voice in neighborhood retail development and joined TechTown Detroit’s suite of entrepreneurial programs and services in 2022. Beyond the contest, Hatch Detroit provides funding, exposure and mentoring in support of its alumni entrepreneurs. With support from Hatch Detroit, 50 alumni have opened businesses. They employ over 500 people and have invested over $10 million in economic development. To learn more, visit hatchdetroit.com.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/comerica-hatch-detroit-contest-by-techtown-announces-four-finalists-competing-for-100-000-grand-prize-302466314.html

SOURCE Comerica Bank

Top 4 entrepreneurs to compete on June 11 for startup funds and business support to open a brick-and-mortar location

DETROIT, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown, the small business competition behind many of Detroit’s most popular neighborhood storefronts, has announced the Top 4 businesses advancing to the final stage of the 2025 competition.

These four entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to compete in the Hatch Off, where they will pitch their businesses for the chance to win $100,000 in startup funding from Comerica Bank to open a brick-and-mortar location in Detroit, Hamtramck or Highland Park. The winner will also receive a business support package from TechTown Detroit, Wayne State University’s entrepreneurship hub.

“The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown continues to foster small business development by supporting Hatch winners and program alumni on their entrepreneurial journeys,” said Christianne Malone, Assistant Vice President for Economic Development at Wayne State University and Chief Program Officer of TechTown Detroit. “We can’t wait to see where each of these contestants go as they nurture their businesses and drive revitalization, supported by their local communities.”

Below are the Top Four businesses competing to win the 2025 Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest:

  • Detroit Culture & Clay: Detroit Culture & Clay is a one stop for all things clay. Guests can enjoy paint and sips, hands-on learning and a full stock of ceramic supplies, while also supporting local artists by purchasing their unique work.
  • Halie & Co: Halie & Co is a handmade jewelry, candle, and home fragrance store with the belief that everyone should have access to affordable jewelry and goods that make them feel beautiful and are created with high-quality materials and intention. Halie & Co creates experiences through permanent jewelry and jewelry making workshops, giving customers the perfect way to be a part of the creation process.
  • Livy’s Sweet Rolls: Livy’s Sweet Rolls specializes in handcrafted gourmet cinnamon rolls made from scratch with nostalgic, high-quality ingredients. Inspired by a family tradition of wholesome baking, Livy’s Sweet Rolls offers better-for-you desserts free from preservatives, dyes, and artificial junk. Its mission is to spread joy through premium sweet treats that families can trust, enjoy, and create memories around.
  • Walter Pat’s Bakery Cafe: Walter Pat’s Bakery Cafe is a seasonally driven, small-batch, black woman-owned bakery in Detroit. The cafe focuses on Michigan seasonal produce and specific flavors from Midwest upbringing and southern influence. Walter Pat’s strives to showcase unique flavor combinations and delicious classics, as well as to broaden taste buds with a new experience through food.

The final round of public voting begins Monday, June 2 at noon and runs through the end of the pitch competition at the Hatch Off on Wednesday, June 11. There, the Top 4 entrepreneurs will present their business plans in front of a panel of expert judges and a live audience. Community members can vote for their favorite businesses once per day by visiting HatchDetroit.com. The winner of the 2025 Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest will be chosen through a combination of the public’s vote and judges’ deliberations.

Over the years, the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown has helped launch some of Detroit’s most successful and well-known businesses, including winners G.L.A.M. Body Scrubs (2024), Bouncing Around The Motor City (2023), Little Liberia (2022), 27th Letter Books (2019), Baobab Fare (2017), Meta Physica Massage (2016), Sister Pie (2014), Batch Brewing Company (2013) and La Feria (2012).

With this year’s contributions and grants, Comerica and the Comerica Charitable Foundation have invested approximately $1.3 million into Hatch Detroit since it first began supporting the small business program in 2012.

“Entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of thriving communities, and supporting their dreams is critical to building strong, sustainable local economies,” said Meghan Storey, Senior Vice President, Michigan Director of Small Business at Comerica Bank. “As we enter the next phase of the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown, we are getting to know more about the new small businesses who will help transform their neighborhoods. It is clear the future is very bright for these entrepreneurs, who are showcasing their passion and inspiration for their businesses and community.”

Tickets are now available to attend the Hatch Off and see the winner crowned. The Hatch Off takes place on Wednesday, June 11 at 6 p.m., at the Wayne State University Industry Innovation Center at 461 Burroughs Street in Detroit. To purchase your ticket to the Hatch Off, visit HatchDetroit.com.

Comerica Bank, a subsidiary of Comerica Incorporated, has served Michigan longer than any other bank with a continuous presence dating back over 175 years to its Detroit founding in 1849. It is the largest bank employer in metro Detroit and has more than 4,300 employees (FTE) statewide. With one of the largest banking center networks in Michigan, Comerica nurtures lifelong relationships with unwavering integrity and financial prudence. Comerica positively impacts the lives of Michigan residents by helping customers be successful, providing financial support that assists hundreds of charitable organizations, and actively participating in Detroit’s downtown revitalization. Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA) is a financial services company strategically aligned by three business segments: The Commercial Bank, The Retail Bank, and Wealth Management. Follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Comerica, X: @ComericaBank and Instagram: @comerica_bank.

TechTown Detroit, Wayne State University’s entrepreneurship hub, is a nonprofit business service organization that provides programs, education and resources for early- to growth-stage small businesses and tech entrepreneurs. By building bridges for entrepreneurs to succeed, TechTown is accelerating an inclusive economy for Detroit and Southeast Michigan. Since 2007, TechTown has supported more than 6,090 companies, which created 2,277 jobs and raised more than $406 million in startup and growth capital. For more information, visit techtowndetroit.org.

Hatch Detroit supports both existing and new retail initiatives in the cities of Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park. Hatch Detroit was founded in 2011 to give residents and aspiring entrepreneurs an opportunity to have a voice in neighborhood retail development and joined TechTown Detroit’s suite of entrepreneurial programs and services in 2022. Beyond the contest, Hatch Detroit provides funding, exposure and mentoring in support of its alumni entrepreneurs. With support from Hatch Detroit, 50 alumni have opened businesses. They employ over 500 people and have invested over $10 million in economic development. To learn more, visit hatchdetroit.com.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/comerica-hatch-detroit-contest-by-techtown-announces-four-finalists-competing-for-100-000-grand-prize-302466314.html

SOURCE Comerica Bank

PNC | Insights

For about two years now, the PNC Center for Financial Education (CFE), an effort led by Community Development Banking, has been collaborating with community-based nonprofits to offer financial education to individuals, first-time homebuyers and small businesses. Now, in a new collaboration with PNC Grow Up Great, the CFE is teaming up with PNC Grow Up Great partner early education centers to deliver financial education to families of pre-K children.

‘You can make it’

Fred Landis of Organizational Financial Wellness and Gus Torres of Corporate & Institutional Banking, both relationship managers in Central Pennsylvania, have volunteered their time to facilitate financial education seminars for the past year. They present the CFE “banking basics” curriculum to individuals who sign up through Community Progress Council, a York County nonprofit focused on helping people move toward economic self-sufficiency.

The nonprofit is a Head Start provider and PNC Grow Up Great partner; Ellen Kyzer, PNC client and community relations director for the Central PA market, also serves as board chair. The seminar explains how to create a spending plan, build a savings account and more to participants, most of whom are working toward becoming first-time homebuyers.

“You think you’re delivering content they already know, but they’ll come up and say, ‘Thank you so much, this is a huge help,’” Landis said. “For me, what I take away is the tremendous amount of gratitude they have.”

“The best thing they say is that they realize they can change their situation,” Torres said. “They may be renting right now, but that doesn’t define whether they can buy a house in 6-8 months. We bring a level of seriousness and hold ourselves accountable. It just takes one person to believe in you and say, ‘You can make it.’”

The organization says its partnership with PNC has been an asset. “Learning how to create a spending plan, building a savings account and manage existing resources are all stepping stones to economic mobility,” said Ruth Robbins, Community Progress Council chief program officer. “With a strong foundation, York County families can better weather any unexpected challenges as they work with us toward their goals in education, employment and income.”

Small effort, big impact

If someone gets involved in this volunteer opportunity, Landis and Torres say they’ll likely take away as much as they give.

“It’s the right thing to do; a good thing to do,” Landis said. “For me, the Community Progress Council carries special significance because I grew up in York City three blocks away. This is something I can do to help the very community I came from.”

For Torres, an Argentinian native who sometimes helps Hispanic participants with translation, it’s also about paying it forward. “It might only be an hour of your day, but it can have a huge impact,” he said. “Think of a time somebody gave an hour of their day to help you and have that same mentality when you’re trying to help others. You’ll find something that will connect you to that community and those people.”

A PNC volunteer might have more to offer than they think, simply on the basis of the knowledge they’ve gained as a PNC employee and a willingness to help.

“Gus and Fred are knowledgeable and personable, taking a potentially dry or overwhelming series of topics and breaking down information in our workshops in a way that’s approachable for all levels,” Robbins said. “Their commitment to building trust in the classroom makes it easier for participants to take the next steps in their journey to self-sufficiency, knowing there are friendly faces in the community ready to support them.”

The PNC Grow Up Great and CFE collaboration is being offered in a number of PNC markets beginning in April and continuing throughout the year. Volunteers can help teach a financial education workshop to families of pre-K children enrolled at PNC early education partner centers in their market, either in-person or virtually, following a CFE Facilitator Guide.

For more information on PNC Grow Up Great, visit pncgrowupgreat.com.

Important Legal Disclosures and Information
These articles are for general information purposes only and are not intended to provide legal, tax, accounting or financial advice. PNC urges its customers to do independent research and to consult with financial and legal professionals before making any financial decisions. This site may provide reference to Internet sites as a convenience to our readers. While PNC endeavors to provide resources that are reputable and safe, we cannot be held responsible for the information, products or services obtained on such sites and will not be liable for any damages arising from your access to such sites. The content, accuracy, opinions expressed and links provided by these resources are not investigated, verified, monitored or endorsed by PNC.

PNC | Insights

For about two years now, the PNC Center for Financial Education (CFE), an effort led by Community Development Banking, has been collaborating with community-based nonprofits to offer financial education to individuals, first-time homebuyers and small businesses. Now, in a new collaboration with PNC Grow Up Great, the CFE is teaming up with PNC Grow Up Great partner early education centers to deliver financial education to families of pre-K children.

‘You can make it’

Fred Landis of Organizational Financial Wellness and Gus Torres of Corporate & Institutional Banking, both relationship managers in Central Pennsylvania, have volunteered their time to facilitate financial education seminars for the past year. They present the CFE “banking basics” curriculum to individuals who sign up through Community Progress Council, a York County nonprofit focused on helping people move toward economic self-sufficiency.

The nonprofit is a Head Start provider and PNC Grow Up Great partner; Ellen Kyzer, PNC client and community relations director for the Central PA market, also serves as board chair. The seminar explains how to create a spending plan, build a savings account and more to participants, most of whom are working toward becoming first-time homebuyers.

“You think you’re delivering content they already know, but they’ll come up and say, ‘Thank you so much, this is a huge help,’” Landis said. “For me, what I take away is the tremendous amount of gratitude they have.”

“The best thing they say is that they realize they can change their situation,” Torres said. “They may be renting right now, but that doesn’t define whether they can buy a house in 6-8 months. We bring a level of seriousness and hold ourselves accountable. It just takes one person to believe in you and say, ‘You can make it.’”

The organization says its partnership with PNC has been an asset. “Learning how to create a spending plan, building a savings account and manage existing resources are all stepping stones to economic mobility,” said Ruth Robbins, Community Progress Council chief program officer. “With a strong foundation, York County families can better weather any unexpected challenges as they work with us toward their goals in education, employment and income.”

Small effort, big impact

If someone gets involved in this volunteer opportunity, Landis and Torres say they’ll likely take away as much as they give.

“It’s the right thing to do; a good thing to do,” Landis said. “For me, the Community Progress Council carries special significance because I grew up in York City three blocks away. This is something I can do to help the very community I came from.”

For Torres, an Argentinian native who sometimes helps Hispanic participants with translation, it’s also about paying it forward. “It might only be an hour of your day, but it can have a huge impact,” he said. “Think of a time somebody gave an hour of their day to help you and have that same mentality when you’re trying to help others. You’ll find something that will connect you to that community and those people.”

A PNC volunteer might have more to offer than they think, simply on the basis of the knowledge they’ve gained as a PNC employee and a willingness to help.

“Gus and Fred are knowledgeable and personable, taking a potentially dry or overwhelming series of topics and breaking down information in our workshops in a way that’s approachable for all levels,” Robbins said. “Their commitment to building trust in the classroom makes it easier for participants to take the next steps in their journey to self-sufficiency, knowing there are friendly faces in the community ready to support them.”

The PNC Grow Up Great and CFE collaboration is being offered in a number of PNC markets beginning in April and continuing throughout the year. Volunteers can help teach a financial education workshop to families of pre-K children enrolled at PNC early education partner centers in their market, either in-person or virtually, following a CFE Facilitator Guide.

For more information on PNC Grow Up Great, visit pncgrowupgreat.com.

Important Legal Disclosures and Information
These articles are for general information purposes only and are not intended to provide legal, tax, accounting or financial advice. PNC urges its customers to do independent research and to consult with financial and legal professionals before making any financial decisions. This site may provide reference to Internet sites as a convenience to our readers. While PNC endeavors to provide resources that are reputable and safe, we cannot be held responsible for the information, products or services obtained on such sites and will not be liable for any damages arising from your access to such sites. The content, accuracy, opinions expressed and links provided by these resources are not investigated, verified, monitored or endorsed by PNC.

PNC | Insights

For about two years now, the PNC Center for Financial Education (CFE), an effort led by Community Development Banking, has been collaborating with community-based nonprofits to offer financial education to individuals, first-time homebuyers and small businesses. Now, in a new collaboration with PNC Grow Up Great, the CFE is teaming up with PNC Grow Up Great partner early education centers to deliver financial education to families of pre-K children.

‘You can make it’

Fred Landis of Organizational Financial Wellness and Gus Torres of Corporate & Institutional Banking, both relationship managers in Central Pennsylvania, have volunteered their time to facilitate financial education seminars for the past year. They present the CFE “banking basics” curriculum to individuals who sign up through Community Progress Council, a York County nonprofit focused on helping people move toward economic self-sufficiency.

The nonprofit is a Head Start provider and PNC Grow Up Great partner; Ellen Kyzer, PNC client and community relations director for the Central PA market, also serves as board chair. The seminar explains how to create a spending plan, build a savings account and more to participants, most of whom are working toward becoming first-time homebuyers.

“You think you’re delivering content they already know, but they’ll come up and say, ‘Thank you so much, this is a huge help,’” Landis said. “For me, what I take away is the tremendous amount of gratitude they have.”

“The best thing they say is that they realize they can change their situation,” Torres said. “They may be renting right now, but that doesn’t define whether they can buy a house in 6-8 months. We bring a level of seriousness and hold ourselves accountable. It just takes one person to believe in you and say, ‘You can make it.’”

The organization says its partnership with PNC has been an asset. “Learning how to create a spending plan, building a savings account and manage existing resources are all stepping stones to economic mobility,” said Ruth Robbins, Community Progress Council chief program officer. “With a strong foundation, York County families can better weather any unexpected challenges as they work with us toward their goals in education, employment and income.”

Small effort, big impact

If someone gets involved in this volunteer opportunity, Landis and Torres say they’ll likely take away as much as they give.

“It’s the right thing to do; a good thing to do,” Landis said. “For me, the Community Progress Council carries special significance because I grew up in York City three blocks away. This is something I can do to help the very community I came from.”

For Torres, an Argentinian native who sometimes helps Hispanic participants with translation, it’s also about paying it forward. “It might only be an hour of your day, but it can have a huge impact,” he said. “Think of a time somebody gave an hour of their day to help you and have that same mentality when you’re trying to help others. You’ll find something that will connect you to that community and those people.”

A PNC volunteer might have more to offer than they think, simply on the basis of the knowledge they’ve gained as a PNC employee and a willingness to help.

“Gus and Fred are knowledgeable and personable, taking a potentially dry or overwhelming series of topics and breaking down information in our workshops in a way that’s approachable for all levels,” Robbins said. “Their commitment to building trust in the classroom makes it easier for participants to take the next steps in their journey to self-sufficiency, knowing there are friendly faces in the community ready to support them.”

The PNC Grow Up Great and CFE collaboration is being offered in a number of PNC markets beginning in April and continuing throughout the year. Volunteers can help teach a financial education workshop to families of pre-K children enrolled at PNC early education partner centers in their market, either in-person or virtually, following a CFE Facilitator Guide.

For more information on PNC Grow Up Great, visit pncgrowupgreat.com.

Important Legal Disclosures and Information
These articles are for general information purposes only and are not intended to provide legal, tax, accounting or financial advice. PNC urges its customers to do independent research and to consult with financial and legal professionals before making any financial decisions. This site may provide reference to Internet sites as a convenience to our readers. While PNC endeavors to provide resources that are reputable and safe, we cannot be held responsible for the information, products or services obtained on such sites and will not be liable for any damages arising from your access to such sites. The content, accuracy, opinions expressed and links provided by these resources are not investigated, verified, monitored or endorsed by PNC.

The partnership combines Lennox’s strength in residential distribution and customer relationships with Ariston Group’s advanced water heating technology and manufacturing footprint, to launch water heaters that will carry the Lennox brands.

DALLAS, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lennox (NYSE: LII), a leader of innovative climate solutions in the HVACR industry, and Ariston Group (Bloomberg: ARIS IM), a global leader in sustainable climate and water comfort, have entered into a joint venture that will bring a competitive product portfolio of residential water heaters to homeowners in the United States and Canada.

This strategic partnership brings the trusted brands, distribution channels, and expansive customer network of Lennox with Ariston Group’s advanced global and regional expertise in water heating technology, R&D, and manufacturing. Together, the two companies aim to strengthen their market presence and drive innovation across the North American residential water heater landscape.

“This joint venture aligns with our strategy to deliver accelerated growth by expanding our product offerings within the residential market, further strengthening our customer relationships,” said Alok Maskara, Chief Executive Officer of Lennox. “We are excited to work alongside Ariston Group, a renowned global leader in water heating, including heat-pump-based high-efficiency water heating solutions. The new joint venture’s offerings, when coupled with existing Lennox products and technology applications, will enable a perfect home comfort environment. Our partnership, grounded in shared principles and goals, provides additional value and growth opportunities to our dealers, distributors, and contractors.”

The joint venture will support the growth of Lennox and Ariston Group water heater sales across their respective channels and customers in the USA and Canada. Beginning in 2026, water heater products carrying the Lennox brands will be sold through Lennox stores, the direct-to-dealer network, and the distributor channel. Through its Ariston USA subsidiary, Ariston Group will continue selling to current customers under its brands. 

“Ariston Group entered the North American market in 2016, building its presence through three acquisitions, recognizing this region as a strategic priority for profitable growth,” said Paolo Merloni, Executive Chairman of Ariston Group. “We are pleased to announce this new chapter with Lennox, an outstanding partner whose market leadership we respect deeply. This joint venture allows us to add to our existing commercial presence and brands an alliance with a strong partner. We are proud to be the technology provider behind high-efficiency solutions that will carry the Lennox brands.”

The newly established joint venture will be called Ariston Lennox Water Heating North America and will be operational after customary closing conditions are met. Ariston USA will own 50.1% of the joint venture, while Lennox will own the remaining 49.9%. Leadership of the joint venture will be appointed jointly by Ariston Group and Lennox. 

About Lennox
Lennox (NYSE: LII) is a leader in energy-efficient climate-control solutions. Dedicated to sustainability and creating comfortable and healthier environments for our residential and commercial customers while reducing their carbon footprint, we lead the field in innovation with our cooling, heating, indoor air quality, and refrigeration systems. Additional information is available at www.lennox.com. For media inquiries, contact PR@lennox.com.

About Ariston Group

Ariston Group (Bloomberg: ARIS IM) is a global leader in sustainable climate and water comfort, listed on Euronext Milan. In 2024 the group reported 2.6 billion-euro revenues, with over 10,000 employees, direct presence in 40 countries in 5 continents, 29 production sites and 28 research and development centers. The group demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through renewable and high-efficiency solutions, including heating heat pumps, water heating heat pumps, hybrids, domestic ventilation, air handling, electric components and solar thermal systems, while continuously investing in technological innovation, digitalization and advanced connectivity solutions. Additional information is available at www.aristongroup.com. For media inquiries, contact corporate.communication@ariston.com.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lennox-and-ariston-group-announce-joint-venture-to-launch-water-heaters-in-north-america-302466278.html

SOURCE Lennox International Inc.

The partnership combines Lennox’s strength in residential distribution and customer relationships with Ariston Group’s advanced water heating technology and manufacturing footprint, to launch water heaters that will carry the Lennox brands.

DALLAS, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lennox (NYSE: LII), a leader of innovative climate solutions in the HVACR industry, and Ariston Group (Bloomberg: ARIS IM), a global leader in sustainable climate and water comfort, have entered into a joint venture that will bring a competitive product portfolio of residential water heaters to homeowners in the United States and Canada.

This strategic partnership brings the trusted brands, distribution channels, and expansive customer network of Lennox with Ariston Group’s advanced global and regional expertise in water heating technology, R&D, and manufacturing. Together, the two companies aim to strengthen their market presence and drive innovation across the North American residential water heater landscape.

“This joint venture aligns with our strategy to deliver accelerated growth by expanding our product offerings within the residential market, further strengthening our customer relationships,” said Alok Maskara, Chief Executive Officer of Lennox. “We are excited to work alongside Ariston Group, a renowned global leader in water heating, including heat-pump-based high-efficiency water heating solutions. The new joint venture’s offerings, when coupled with existing Lennox products and technology applications, will enable a perfect home comfort environment. Our partnership, grounded in shared principles and goals, provides additional value and growth opportunities to our dealers, distributors, and contractors.”

The joint venture will support the growth of Lennox and Ariston Group water heater sales across their respective channels and customers in the USA and Canada. Beginning in 2026, water heater products carrying the Lennox brands will be sold through Lennox stores, the direct-to-dealer network, and the distributor channel. Through its Ariston USA subsidiary, Ariston Group will continue selling to current customers under its brands. 

“Ariston Group entered the North American market in 2016, building its presence through three acquisitions, recognizing this region as a strategic priority for profitable growth,” said Paolo Merloni, Executive Chairman of Ariston Group. “We are pleased to announce this new chapter with Lennox, an outstanding partner whose market leadership we respect deeply. This joint venture allows us to add to our existing commercial presence and brands an alliance with a strong partner. We are proud to be the technology provider behind high-efficiency solutions that will carry the Lennox brands.”

The newly established joint venture will be called Ariston Lennox Water Heating North America and will be operational after customary closing conditions are met. Ariston USA will own 50.1% of the joint venture, while Lennox will own the remaining 49.9%. Leadership of the joint venture will be appointed jointly by Ariston Group and Lennox. 

About Lennox
Lennox (NYSE: LII) is a leader in energy-efficient climate-control solutions. Dedicated to sustainability and creating comfortable and healthier environments for our residential and commercial customers while reducing their carbon footprint, we lead the field in innovation with our cooling, heating, indoor air quality, and refrigeration systems. Additional information is available at www.lennox.com. For media inquiries, contact PR@lennox.com.

About Ariston Group

Ariston Group (Bloomberg: ARIS IM) is a global leader in sustainable climate and water comfort, listed on Euronext Milan. In 2024 the group reported 2.6 billion-euro revenues, with over 10,000 employees, direct presence in 40 countries in 5 continents, 29 production sites and 28 research and development centers. The group demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through renewable and high-efficiency solutions, including heating heat pumps, water heating heat pumps, hybrids, domestic ventilation, air handling, electric components and solar thermal systems, while continuously investing in technological innovation, digitalization and advanced connectivity solutions. Additional information is available at www.aristongroup.com. For media inquiries, contact corporate.communication@ariston.com.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lennox-and-ariston-group-announce-joint-venture-to-launch-water-heaters-in-north-america-302466278.html

SOURCE Lennox International Inc.

The partnership combines Lennox’s strength in residential distribution and customer relationships with Ariston Group’s advanced water heating technology and manufacturing footprint, to launch water heaters that will carry the Lennox brands.

DALLAS, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lennox (NYSE: LII), a leader of innovative climate solutions in the HVACR industry, and Ariston Group (Bloomberg: ARIS IM), a global leader in sustainable climate and water comfort, have entered into a joint venture that will bring a competitive product portfolio of residential water heaters to homeowners in the United States and Canada.

This strategic partnership brings the trusted brands, distribution channels, and expansive customer network of Lennox with Ariston Group’s advanced global and regional expertise in water heating technology, R&D, and manufacturing. Together, the two companies aim to strengthen their market presence and drive innovation across the North American residential water heater landscape.

“This joint venture aligns with our strategy to deliver accelerated growth by expanding our product offerings within the residential market, further strengthening our customer relationships,” said Alok Maskara, Chief Executive Officer of Lennox. “We are excited to work alongside Ariston Group, a renowned global leader in water heating, including heat-pump-based high-efficiency water heating solutions. The new joint venture’s offerings, when coupled with existing Lennox products and technology applications, will enable a perfect home comfort environment. Our partnership, grounded in shared principles and goals, provides additional value and growth opportunities to our dealers, distributors, and contractors.”

The joint venture will support the growth of Lennox and Ariston Group water heater sales across their respective channels and customers in the USA and Canada. Beginning in 2026, water heater products carrying the Lennox brands will be sold through Lennox stores, the direct-to-dealer network, and the distributor channel. Through its Ariston USA subsidiary, Ariston Group will continue selling to current customers under its brands. 

“Ariston Group entered the North American market in 2016, building its presence through three acquisitions, recognizing this region as a strategic priority for profitable growth,” said Paolo Merloni, Executive Chairman of Ariston Group. “We are pleased to announce this new chapter with Lennox, an outstanding partner whose market leadership we respect deeply. This joint venture allows us to add to our existing commercial presence and brands an alliance with a strong partner. We are proud to be the technology provider behind high-efficiency solutions that will carry the Lennox brands.”

The newly established joint venture will be called Ariston Lennox Water Heating North America and will be operational after customary closing conditions are met. Ariston USA will own 50.1% of the joint venture, while Lennox will own the remaining 49.9%. Leadership of the joint venture will be appointed jointly by Ariston Group and Lennox. 

About Lennox
Lennox (NYSE: LII) is a leader in energy-efficient climate-control solutions. Dedicated to sustainability and creating comfortable and healthier environments for our residential and commercial customers while reducing their carbon footprint, we lead the field in innovation with our cooling, heating, indoor air quality, and refrigeration systems. Additional information is available at www.lennox.com. For media inquiries, contact PR@lennox.com.

About Ariston Group

Ariston Group (Bloomberg: ARIS IM) is a global leader in sustainable climate and water comfort, listed on Euronext Milan. In 2024 the group reported 2.6 billion-euro revenues, with over 10,000 employees, direct presence in 40 countries in 5 continents, 29 production sites and 28 research and development centers. The group demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through renewable and high-efficiency solutions, including heating heat pumps, water heating heat pumps, hybrids, domestic ventilation, air handling, electric components and solar thermal systems, while continuously investing in technological innovation, digitalization and advanced connectivity solutions. Additional information is available at www.aristongroup.com. For media inquiries, contact corporate.communication@ariston.com.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lennox-and-ariston-group-announce-joint-venture-to-launch-water-heaters-in-north-america-302466278.html

SOURCE Lennox International Inc.

World class equipment and services company, CNH, has released its 2024 Sustainability Report.

The report highlights how it worked to support its customers, employees and communities last year.

The report outlines CNH’s commitment to sustainability in projects such as conducting 78 energy-saving initiatives that resulted in further significant reductions its energy consumption and CO2 emissions. CNH also made great strides in renewable electricity adoption – which now accounts for 70.4% of the company’s total electricity use.

Read the full report here.