Local Entrepreneur Advances to National Small Business Competition — Public Voting Now Open

A Maryland-based entrepreneur is gaining national attention.
Hyacinth Tucker, founder of The Laundry Basket, has advanced to the semifinals of The UPS Store Small Biz Challenge, rising above nearly 6,000 applicants from across the country. The competition, hosted by The UPS Store, Inc., highlights innovative small businesses that are redefining how services are delivered in today’s economy.
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Founded in 2022, The Laundry Basket has quickly built a reputation for convenience and efficiency. The company offers a subscription-based laundry and dry-cleaning delivery service, picking up clothing directly from customers’ doorsteps, professionally cleaning and folding items, and returning them within 24 to 48 hours. What began as a local solution has expanded into multiple markets, now serving Maryland, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, Northeast Ohio, and Toronto.
@media ( min-width: 300px ){.newspack_global_ad.scaip-1{min-height: 100px;}}@media ( min-width: 728px ){.newspack_global_ad.scaip-1{min-height: 90px;}}Tucker’s advancement to the semifinals places her among just nine remaining competitors. During this phase, participants will complete a series of business challenges while receiving mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs—an opportunity that could further accelerate the company’s growth.
The next step in the competition includes a public voting period running through April 5. Supporters can cast their votes by visitinghttps://www.theupsstore.com/smallbizchallenge. Public votes will help determine which three finalists move on to the live final event in Nashville, Tennessee, on April 23.
At stake is a $25,000 grand prize and a feature in Inc. magazine, offering both financial support and national exposure.
@media ( min-width: 300px ){.newspack_global_ad.scaip-2{min-height: 100px;}}@media ( min-width: 728px ){.newspack_global_ad.scaip-2{min-height: 90px;}}Tucker’s success comes at a time when small businesses continue to navigate economic uncertainty. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, between 46% and 58% of small businesses cite inflation as their biggest challenge. Despite these pressures, entrepreneurs like Tucker are finding ways to innovate, scale, and meet evolving consumer needs.
The Laundry Basket’s growth reflects a broader shift toward convenience-based services, particularly for busy households and professionals seeking time-saving solutions. As the competition continues, Tucker’s journey highlights how small businesses are leveraging innovation and adaptability to compete—and win—on a national stage.


