Brock School of Business Announces 2026-27 Samford Startup Cohort
Samford Startup, the student-led business incubator housed in Samford University’s Brock School of Business, has announced its 2026-27 cohort. Through this experiential program, students explore what it takes to launch, grow and scale a business while building the confidence and creativity essential for entrepreneurial success.
Samford Startup: Sela
Sela is a tech platform founded by senior finance majors Ty Nelson and Troup Wallace, who connect homeowners, businesses and real estate professionals with local college students for everyday projects.
Samford Startup: Tanner Wages Photography
Tanner Wages, a senior journalism and mass communication double major, grounds her company in the belief that photography is more than images — it’s storytelling.
Samford Startup: Labeled By Love
Shelby Law, a junior entrepreneurship major, founded an online women’s clothing boutique offering curated, trend-forward styles designed to make getting dressed fun and effortless.
Samford Startup: Devoted Ministry
Reagan Johnson, a senior marketing and entrepreneurship double major, is the founder of Devoted Ministry, a faith-based brand designed to help college-age women deepen their relationship with the Lord.
Samford Startup: Hardeman River Angling
Mitchell Hardeman wants to showcase New England fly-fishing and the experience of local culture.
Samford Startup: Marian Florals LLC
Mary Grant Baumbach, a sophomore philosophy major, is the founder of Marian Florals LLC, a floral design and flower farming business, inspired by a lifelong love of gardening and time spent on her family’s farm.
Samford Startup: Stitched By Madison
Madison Hamilton, a senior entrepreneurship and marketing double major, founded a sorority apparel and accessories brand celebrating sisterhood through fun, personalized designs.
Samford Startup: Lela Bee Kitchen
Lela Duggan, a junior accounting major, founded a health and wellness brand offering simple, nourishing recipes that are gluten-free, dairy-free and refined sugar-free.
Samford Startup: Three Camels
Kelly Grey Taylor is the owner of a clothing and accessories brand specializing in reversible tote bags.
Samford Startup: Kj Papery
Katie Jane Glassford, a senior entrepreneurship major is the founder of Kj Papery, a watercolor stationary brand inspired by everyday moments.
Samford Startup: Deerfoot Landscapes
Jacob Carmichael, a junior finance major, founded a lawn care and landscaping company committed to quality workmanship, dependable service and strong customer relationships.
Samford Startup: The Etc. Shop
Emma Claire Thompson, a junior finance and marketing double major, owns a thriving small business fueled by her love for crafting meaningful, personalized products.
Samford Startup: 55 Athletics
Braedy Sommerville, a sophomore management major, founded a business that connects college students with young athletes through hands-on sports training and personal mentorship.
Samford Startup: Hydraglow
Ava O’Dowd, a senior accounting major, founded a business focused on creating high-quality skincare tools that promote confidence and genuine skin health.
Samford Startup: Rooted Rhythm
Alyssa Blackson, a senior marketing and entrepreneurship double major, founded a business dedicated to helping girls better understand their bodies, hormones and overall health through biology, education and scripture.
Young Alumnus of the Year: James Graham amazed by 'the impact Samford has'
Graham '14 endowed two scholarships in honor of his grandfathers and serves on the Brock School of Business Advisory Board.
Samford Accounting Program Ranks Top 5% Nationally for CPA Pass Rates, #1 in Alabama
Brock School of Business's accounting program earned an 80.8% first-time pass rate on the Uniform Certified Public Accountant Exam—the highest score in the state of Alabama.
