Leandra Roche realized her passion for hair care by founding High Definition Hair Design Salon and Academy in Merrillville. Noah Miller launched Mr. Miller’s Mobile Detailing in Northwest Indiana. Kayla Oberholtzer, a student at Indiana University Northwest, started a photography business. These ventures emerged from the support and education provided by Indiana University’s programs.
Noah Miller, a 21-year-old from Hobart, cleans cars in St. John, Indiana. He is the owner of Mr. Miller’s Mobile Detailing and was recognized along with 17 other entrepreneurs after completing IU Northwest’s SEED and Indiana University’s Innovates programs.
Recently, 10 entrepreneurs completed Indiana University Northwest’s SEED program. The program partners with Notre Dame’s Urban Poverty and Business Initiative, providing 11 months of business training and mentorship, explained Indiana University Northwest Business Academy Director Jana Szostek.
Graduates of the program include Roche, Miller, and several others like Naté Billingsley and Deanna Ware. Another eight individuals completed the IU Innovates program designed for students, faculty, and staff who aspire to start their own companies. Kayla Oberholtzer was among these graduates, along with names such as Julysa Alamo and Chloe Echols-Taylor.
Leandra Roche, a hairstylist with 30 years of experience, previously owned A Joyous Look salon. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, she closed the salon and took a year off to refine her skills and focus on naturally curly hair care. After hosting stylists in her home, she opened High Definition Hair Design Salon and Academy. The salon offers personalized care and various styling options, emphasizing the uniqueness of each client’s hair.
Miller started Mr. Miller’s Mobile Detailing in February 2025 and formalized the business in July that year. His mobile service vehicle is equipped to handle car detailing at customers’ locations, offering services from basic washes to advanced treatments like ceramic coating. Miller’s intention to improve his income led him to start the business, drawing on his experience with vehicles and the low startup costs involved.
Oberholtzer, studying business administration at IUN with a focus on digital marketing and graphic design, launched Kaymae Photos LLC. Her business specializes in portrait photography, providing clients with personalized experiences. She became interested in photography during her high school years, receiving commendations for her yearbook efforts.
Both Miller and Oberholtzer found the SEED program beneficial. Miller emphasized the importance of networking, while Oberholtzer highlighted the collaborative environment and shared learning among participants. Roche, meanwhile, noted the program helped her understand systems for managing business growth.
Roche plans to expand her business to include cosmetology, supported by insights gained from the SEED program. Miller aims to grow his business by adding more vehicles and crews to allow him to focus on management. Oberholtzer enhanced her marketing understanding and business plan development through the program.