The popular Hatch Detroit contest has entered its fourth year and the ten start-ups announced as semi-finalists are doing all that they can to garner votes. The eventual winner of the small business competition will receive a $50,000 grant and a suite of business support services.

Voting for the semi-finalist round is open to the public and ends at 11:59 p.m. EST on August 14. Voters may select four businesses during the first round and may vote once a day. Voting for the second round will begin August 15, when the field of competitors is narrowed to four businesses. The eventual winner of the $50,000 prize will be announced August 20.

While there is only one winner, just making it into the top ten is a great source of exposure and motivation for businesses.

"Hatch has given us a faster pace to run to," says Jen David, co-founder of Third Wave Music. "I've been meeting new people and talking to many musicians and students excited for a new spot to get what they need and have support. It's been really encouraging to hear positive feedback. It's really motivating."

The semi-finalists are:

• Alegria Pops: Maker of Mexican ice pops
• Bumbo's: A neighborhood bar and restaurant in Hamtramck
• Cockadoodle: A breakfast and lunch spot on the Avenue of Fashion
• Gabriel Hall: A New Orleans-themed restaurant, bar, and venue in Woodbridge
• McClary Bros. Outpost: An old-timey 'drinking vinegar' maker in Corktown
• Rocco's Italian Deli: High quality meats, cheeses, vegetables, and herbs shop in Midtown
• Sister Pie: A locally-sourced pie maker opening in West Village
• Third Wave Music: An instrument retail store opening in the soon-to-be restored Forest Arms apartment building in Midtown
• Uncle Bug's Organic Creamery: Artisanal ice cream manufacturing space and retail storefront
• 1701 Bespoke: A custom menswear store

Source: Jen David, co-founder of Third Wave Music
Writer: MJ Galbraith

Got a development news story to share? Email MJ Galbraith here or send him a tweet @mikegalbraith.