March 7, 2025
Building Utah’s Arts and Community Heritage One Performance at a Time
Over the past 40 years, Hale Centre Theatre evolved from a small family venture to a vibrant cultural beacon, drawing 600,000 patrons annually. Co-founders Mark and Sally Dietlein describe the challenges and triumphs on their path to success. They highlight Utah’s community support as the cornerstone of the theatre’s resilience and transformation into a cultural and economic powerhouse.
Sunshine Buns
Rooted in a 45-year-old family recipe, Sunshine Buns is a cinnamon roll venture inspired by co-founder Chrisi Hammer’s mother, Mema, who spent decades perfecting the recipe. It began in 2022 with online sales and deliveries before opening its first storefront in Orem. The company quickly gained traction, selling out within minutes after launching on Instagram. The four founders built Sunshine Buns through grassroots efforts and mentorship, crediting Utah’s strong startup ecosystem for their success.
iHub
The Innovation Hub of Utah is more than a coworking space — it’s a collaborative community. In addition to mentorship from experienced business leaders, iHub fosters a culture of shared growth, with founders exchanging insights, resources, and encouragement. This dynamic environment creates lasting connections, driving innovation through teamwork and mutual success. Providing free office space, networking opportunities, and access to capital, iHub ensures startups receive support while contributing to a thriving ecosystem that fuels entrepreneurship.
Building authentic business relationships can pave the way for lasting success. Finding potential mentors, partners, and colleagues opens doors to new opportunities and fosters mutual support. Effective ways to do this include attending industry events, joining professional groups, and engaging in online platforms. By maintaining a touchpoint — seeking advice or sharing timely insights — you can strengthen your network and ultimately propel your business forward. Every meaningful interaction provides fresh perspectives while connecting you to resources, creating a strong foundation for long-term success.
– Brad Bonham, Utah’s Entrepreneur-In-Residence
February Winners: Get Started Business Idea Challenge
Do you have a business idea? Utah’s Get Started Business Idea Challenge encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into thriving businesses. The competition is open each month to Utah residents with any idea, awarding winners with $500 in non-equity funding.
February’s Get Started winners include:
Benchmark Body Metrics, FanBase.fm, Hearthlight, Kiddie Klosets, Local Bait Box, OgdenXR, ServiceGo, Squirt The Clown, and That’s Sew Haute.
Learn about each winner and how you can join Utah’s thriving startup community.
Thank you to Fudge Co., MedicaidSoft, Sips Club, and Sunshine Buns for being a part of Utah’s startup community. Share your story with us for the chance for your company to be featured.
Want this sent right to your inbox? Subscribe to the Startup State Initiative newsletter so you can receive monthly updates on entrepreneur resources, tips, events, and more.