Celebrating student voices and ventures

Whether you’re a supporter of small businesses, an aspiring entrepreneur or just looking for the next big thing, Entrepreneurship Village offers a glimpse into Belmont’s talented student and alumni entrepreneurs.  

This year, the Thomas F. Cone Center for Entrepreneurship partnered with It Must Be Wednesday to host another successful Entrepreneurship Village on campus at Freedom Plaza. 

Meet the Student Vendors 

Each vendor at the Entrepreneurship Village brings a unique flair and passion to their craft. From handcrafted jewelry to decadent sweets and bold fashion, these young entrepreneurs are proving that the business world is for the passionate and determined. 

Jess Finny, Chechi’s Chai 

Class of 2024
Full of spice 

Founder: Jess Finny  
Business: Chechi’s Chai 
Behind the brand: A warm, comforting sip of chai has never been so full of heart. Jess Finny started Chechi’s Chai with a mission to share authentic, homemade chai blends that capture the essence of tradition and family. 

Kathryn-Grace Stacio, Sweet Pea Sweets 

Class of 2025 
Sweet treats, sweet moments

Founder: Kathryn-Grace Stacio 
Business: Sweet Pea Sweets  
Behind the brand: Life’s sweetest moments deserve equally sweet treats. Sweet Pea Sweets specializes in beautifully crafted, homemade confections that bring a personal touch to every bite. Each creation is baked with love and a commitment to making life a little sweeter.  

Kayla Kirkland, The Far Out 

Class of 2025 
Fashion for good 

Founder: Kayla Kirkland  
Business: The Far Out 
Behind the brand: The Far Out is changing the way consumers view clothing by prioritizing the use of recycled and secondhand materials in its products. By choosing to shop at The Far Out, customers are not only making a fashion statement but also making a positive impact on the environment.  

Alayna Rindler, Heaven’s Sweet Shoppe 

Class of 2025 
Sugar, spice and everything nice 

Founder: Alayna Rindler 
Business: Heaven’s Sweet Shoppe  
Behind the brand: Heaven’s Sweet Shoppe is a haven for those with a sweet tooth. This shoppe is dedicated to celebrating you and the moments in your life by offering hand-crafted desserts that delight the taste buds and bring joy with every bite. 

Macey Mefferd, Sparkle By Mace 

Class of 2025 
Glam is a mindset 

Founder: Macey Mefferd 
Business: Sparkle By Mace  
Behind the brand: Sparkle By Mace is all about handcrafted accessories that add the perfect touch of elegance and charm. Each piece is designed to complement different styles, making it easy for customers to find their next favorite accessory. 

Kam’Ron Young, Normak 

Class of 2025
Making wearable stories  

Founder: Kam’Ron Young 
Business: Normak  
Behind the brand: Normak focuses on storytelling through fashion. By providing meaningful pieces for your closet, Normak seeks to redefine the fashion industry by sharing the voices of those often unheard. 

Creating Opportunities for Entrepreneurs 

Entrepreneurship Village continues to allow student entrepreneurs to put their hard work on display, connect with Belmont’s supportive community and refine their craft in a real-world setting.  

As attendees stroll through the village, they’re not just shopping — they’re investing in dreams, supporting the future of business and witnessing firsthand the power of student innovation.