There’s no shortage of creativity across Michigan State University’s entrepreneurial community. Start your holiday shopping with businesses built by MSU students and alumni.
This year’s gift guide features a mix of student-founded brands, alumni-owned businesses, and MSU favorites. From specialty foods and apparel, to wellness, fitness and more, there’s something for everyone on your list.
Tart, Lindsey Fredrick (Marketing ’24)
Give the gift of a refreshing daily ritual with Tart, a lifestyle beverage that combines tart cherry with mineral water and prioritizes organic ingredients. Lindsay Frederick, a 2024 Marketing graduate, created Tart as a better-for-you everyday beverage designed to support overall wellness. It’s a thoughtful pick for someone looking to add something new to their daily routine.
Bakr Cookies, Alexa Ryan (Supply Chain Management ’15)
Some gifts are meant to be shared, and cookies are always a good place to start. Bakr Cookies makes holiday gifting a little more fun and convenient. Founded by Alexa Ryan (’15), Bakr Cookies offers ready-to-eat refrigerated cookie dough with clean ingredients.
Whether you’re gifting a fellow dessert lover or stocking your own fridge for the holiday season, Bakr Cookies puts a fresh spin on a classic treat. Available at Target and Publix stores nationwide.
PWR UP, Mary Aipoalani (Horticultural Science ‘90)
Founded by Mary Aipoalani, PWR UP gives classic cocoa a functional upgrade with a protein-powered powder that includes collagen. Designed to bring more to your everyday chocolate fix, it’s an easy addition to a morning routine or afternoon pick–me–up. For anyone who loves chocolate and is looking to incorporate more protein into their day, PWR Up offers a new way to enjoy a familiar favorite.
Get Loaded, Ismael Jabar (Advertising Management ’26)
What started as a food truck in 2023 has grown into a restaurant in Okemos for Get Loaded, a comfort-food concept founded by Ismael Jabar (’26). Inspired by his family’s experience in the food truck business, Jaber puts a creative spin on loaded mac and cheese and loaded fries, with menu favorites like Buffalo Mac Cheese and Philly Cheesesteak Fries. With its focus on bold flavors and memorable food, Get Loaded brings a fresh take to comfort-food classics. Pick up a gift card for the East Lansing local on your list or plan a visit during the holiday season to check out the menu for yourself.
Nani Girl Snacks, Claudilane Nascimento & Matheus Nascimento-Pereria (Advertising Management ’25)
Founded by mother-son duo Claudilane Nascimento and Matheus Nascimento-Pereira, Nani Girl Snacks brings Brazilian-inspired cassava snacks to the table with its signature Cassie Puffs. Light and crunchy, they’re an easy addition to a holiday gift basket or a thoughtful pick for anyone who enjoys discovering new food brands.
Wright’s Bites Pretzels, Christina Wright (Nutritional Sciences ’13)
Wright’s Bites puts a flavorful spin on a classic snack with seasoned pretzel bites made in Michigan. Founded by Christina Wright, the Grand Rapids-based brand offers an easy addition to a holiday snack spread or a gift basket for the person who always reaches for something salty. Spartan shoppers can also find Wright’s Bites at the MSU Dairy Store.
ReRoute Wellness, Allison Zaluski (Marketing ‘24)
Who knew candy could have a place in your wellness routine? Founded by Allision Zaluski (’24), ReRoute Wellness created Grounding Sours, plant-based hard sour candies made with ingredients including L-theanine and tulsi. Available in Berry Cherry, the candies offer an unconventional take on everyday wellness and make a unique addition to a gift for someone who enjoys exploring new approaches to self-care.
Recharged Pilates, Olivia Harris (Advertising ‘18)
Know someone who’s always talking about Pilates? Recharged Pilates, co-founded by Olivia Harris, offers gift cards and class packages for its East Lansing studio. It’s a thoughtful way to introduce someone to a local business while giving them the flexibility to choose a class that fits their schedule.
All Dyed Up Co., Chloe O’Brien (Kinesiology ’25)
All Dyed Up Co. brings together custom apparel and accessories with designs that make pieces feel unique. From embroidered sweatshirts and matching sets to everyday accessories, the brand offers a range of options for anyone looking to add something personal to their wardrobe. It’s a great way to shop small while finding a gift that’s practical and personal.
A.Stitched, Alexa Shepherd (Human Biology ‘26)
For a gift that feels a little more personal. A.Stitched offers custom embroidery on apparel and everyday accessories. Alexa Shepherd (Human Biology ’26) puts a personal touch on everything from sweatshirts and cosmetic bags to hand towels and keychains. With many options for different styles and occasions, it’s the perfect place to source a one-of-a-kind gift.
Button Up Michigan, Georgia Randels (MBA ‘22)
Get ready for Spartan game day. Button Up Michigan, created by Georgia Randels, offers game day buttons that add a little extra green and white. Whether you’re heading to Spartan Stadium or cheering from home, Button Up Michigan is a fun way to show your Spartan pride all season long.
Spartan Spirit Shop
The Spartan Spirit Shop is a go-to for MSU gear, with a wide selection of apparel, game-day necessities, home decor, drinkware, pet gear, and more. Whether you’re shopping for a current student, the alum who never misses a game, or the newest little Spartan in the family, there’s something for everyone, both in-store and online.
MSU Surplus Store – Shadows Collection
Give a piece of MSU history this holiday season with the MSU Shadows Collection. Through a partnership with local artisans, wood from trees removed from campus have been transformed into handcrafted pieces like charcuterie boards, coasters, and pens. Each item gives new life to a piece of campus while creating a unique keepsake for Spartans near and far.
Student-Made Michigan State
Student-Made Michigan state brings together products from MSU student entrepreneurs, making it easy to shop small and support the next generation of Spartans. From original artwork and handmade accessories to apparel, specialty foods and more, the online marketplace features a wide range of products created by students turning their ideas into business.
This year’s guide highlights just a few of the many businesses shaped by MSU student and alumni. Previous editions of the guide have featured even more Spartan entrepreneurs and the business they’ve built.
In Other News:
Each year, the college honors exceptional alumni and friends at the annual Celebrate Broad event
The film follows Justin Murray’s path to becoming president of SignComp in Grand Rapids
Get Connected with Broad:
- Business College Complex
- 632 Bogue St
- East Lansing, MI 48824