Meet the 2026 Idea Incubator Cohort
Every successful business starts with an idea. Turning that idea into a sustainable business takes guidance, determination, and a willingness to keep learning.
Since early June, 16 entrepreneurs have been participating in ASSETS’ Idea Incubator, strengthening their businesses through hands-on workshops, mentorship, and collaboration with fellow entrepreneurs. As they prepare for the program’s next milestone, they’re refining their business models, sharpening their pitches, and getting ready to share their ideas with the community.
In August, each entrepreneur will take the stage at Pitch & Brew, where they’ll present their businesses before a panel of judges. Following the event, five entrepreneurs will advance to compete in the 2026 Great Social Enterprise Pitch, ASSETS’ premier business pitch competition, on September 10 at Zoetropolis Cinema Stillhouse.
While only five businesses will move on to the final stage, every entrepreneur in this cohort has invested time, energy, and determination into growing their business. Before they take the stage, we’d like to introduce the entrepreneurs who make up the 2026 Idea Incubator cohort.
Health & Wellness
Jihan Owens-Tyler
Building Kukoa, a mental health practice that creates a safe and supportive space for the Black community.
Malia Burris
The Live Well Experience creates community wellness experiences through sound meditation, expressive arts, and public art.
Michael Bradley
Developing Aftercare Compass, a web platform that helps behavioral health and substance use treatment providers deliver more effective care.
Zipporah Mosiara Onyimbo Ngara
Baraka Family Mental Health Services LLC provides mental health services that support individuals and families.
Food & Hospitality
Bo Miller
In Da Bun is a veteran-owned food business serving authentic New York-style hot dogs.
Hazem Elsalhy
Launching Bread and Salt bakery specializing in traditional Egyptian baked goods.
Sabrina Durand
Craft and Cork creates hands-on experiences that bring creativity and community together.
Professional Services
Cheyenne Brubaker
Arcane Accounting, LLC provides fractional accounting services for growing businesses.
Julia Morrell
Custom Clean Commercial Cleaning Services, LLC provides professional commercial cleaning services.
Sharon Allen-Spann
Coach Sharon helps leaders overcome burnout and build healthier workplace cultures.
Chris Fitz & Krista Rittenhouse
Developing Advoz Restorative Workplace Conflict Resolution Services, a startup initiative that helps organizations address workplace conflict at its root.
Creative & Lifestyle
Bethsaida Valentin
Kreate Endlessly Studio is growing into a full-service salon offering hair, skin, and nail services.
Kimberly Elter
Kelter Lifestyle LLC provides interior design and decluttering services.
Lizette Hernandez
(photo unavailable)
Lee’s Teez LLC creates print-on-demand athletic apparel designed for women.
Molly Swan
Living Wild Collective creates guided nature immersion experiences that foster connection and well-being.
Susanna Wurtz
Mountain Laurel Sewing Company celebrates craftsmanship through sewing and handmade goods.
What’s Next
In the coming weeks, these entrepreneurs will take the stage at Pitch & Brew to share the businesses they’ve been building through the Idea Incubator. From there, five finalists will earn the opportunity to compete at the 2026 Great Social Enterprise Pitch.
We hope you’ll follow along as we continue sharing their stories and celebrate the creativity and determination that define this year’s cohort.