How it all started…
In 2023, I was approached by Paul Schmidt and Chad Munce and asked to join them as a co-host for the Lansing Marketing Hackers Group, a local community that I had been an active member of for over a year. They believed my expertise and skills would be a valuable asset to the team since they were losing their third co-host.
Obviously, I was happy to join the team! With our primary goal being to increase event attendees and community participation, I immediately had all sorts of ideas that I wanted to share. Not too long after joining, due to scheduling conflicts and workload, Chad decided to step back from hosting and just participate in the group as a member.
Introducing MIpreneur…
As Paul and I wrapped up the year and started thinking about 2024, we found a common theme in what we wanted to share and what the community was asking for…to expand our topics beyond marketing alone. After taking some time to brainstorm ideas, I came to Paul and whispered to him my big idea.
That’s how MIpreneur was born!
As we step into 2024, we’re thrilled to unveil the transformation of the Lansing Marketing Hackers Group into the newly minted MIpreneur community!
For this new year, we took the “New year, new you.” phrase to heart and decided to embark on a journey of evolution. We’ve reshaped our identity to better reflect the diverse landscape of entrepreneurship and business development within the state of Michigan.
What is MIpreneur?
MIpreneur, born in 2024 in Lansing, MI, stands as a testament to our commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals across Michigan. Our rebranding isn’t just a change in name; it marks a profound shift in our vision and mission.
No longer confined to the realm of marketing alone, MIpreneur now embraces the entirety of the entrepreneurial experience. We aspire to provide a comprehensive platform that addresses a myriad of topics essential to building a successful brand or business in Michigan. Whether you are an industry expert or just embarking on your entrepreneurial journey, MIpreneur is your go-to destination for learning, growth, and connection.
Our Purpose
Our Tagline
“The Location Never Changes, But the People Do.”
This tagline encapsulates the essence of MIpreneur, emphasizing the enduring nature of our commitment to Michigan while recognizing the ever-evolving community that shapes our dynamic landscape.
Our Mission
At MIpreneur, our mission is to offer a supportive and safe environment where members can engage in meaningful conversations, access valuable resources, establish vital connections, and find unwavering support on their entrepreneurial endeavors.
Education is at the core of our values, and we are dedicated to providing our members with the tools and insights necessary for success in Michigan’s dynamic business landscape.
Our People
The Community
Our community thrives on the principles of collaboration and knowledge-sharing. MIpreneur is not merely a networking hub; it is a social learning space where members can explore, connect, and thrive together. We understand that the journey of building a business involves more than just marketing strategies; it encompasses the entire spectrum of experiences unique to our state.
Our Hosts
MIpreneur is proud to be founded and hosted by industry trailblazers: Desi M. Slaughter, the Owner/Branding & Marketing Specialist of Brand & Press Studio, and Paul Schmidt, the Owner/Creative Video Strategist of UnoDeuce Multimedia. Our passion for entrepreneurship, coupled with our wealth of experience and desire to make an impact in our community, serves as the guiding force behind MIpreneur’s commitment to excellence.
Final Thoughts
As we raise our glasses to welcome 2024, we invite you to join MIpreneur on this exciting new chapter. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or a budding professional, MIpreneur is here to empower, educate, and elevate your journey in the thriving Michigan business community. Cheers to growth, collaboration, and the boundless possibilities that await us in the realm of MIpreneur!