Media Recognition

Brianna’s been busy…and the press has noticed!

Purdue Northwest Society of Innovators:
2022 Women To Watch

“Our 2022 Women to Watch List includes innovators and entrepreneurs that are making an impact across Northwest Indiana. These are the leaders shaping business and economic growth in our region’s communities. Some names may be familiar, while some may be new to you. In all cases, these women achieved success in 2021 and are carrying that momentum with them into the new year.”

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Indiana Small Business Development Center:
Northwest Indiana E-Day Winners

“For Bri’s Dance Place owner, dance is about way more than just choreography.

‘Dance teaches life lessons. Providing our dancers structure through dance equips them to be self-confident, kind human beings,” said CEO and founder Brianna Hairlson. “We believe that dance is for all ages, stages and abilities, and we don’t just teach dance, we teach life!’

Brianna’s Merrillville-based studio is home to classes for all ages from 2 to 18 in Ballet, Tap, Acro/Tumbling, Modern and Hip Hop. Her staff includes eight teachers and educators, and her team focuses on age-appropriate costumes, moves and music.

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Hello Alice:
Small Business Growth Fund Recipients

“Hello Alice is excited to usher in the Year of Small Business with the first 50 Small Business Growth Fund recipients.

As a recipient, each small business owner will be awarded a $5K grant to help them make their next big move in 2022.

Hello Alice is proud to say that many recipients identify as part of the New Majority of small business owners.”

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IFundWomen:
Entrepreneur of the Year Semifinalist

Brianna was selected as a Semifinalist for IFundWomen’s Entrepreneur of the Year 2021 program.

Alongside a group of founders within the Arts, Media, and Entertainment category, she took the virtual stage (while also working with entrepreneurs South Africa), pitched Bri's Dance Place, and received expert feedback from an all-star panel of judges.

All pitchers in each category received coaching grants to IFundWomen, and monetary grants were awarded to category honorees.

Inside Indiana Business:
Lake County Business Owner Chosen for AMEX Program

“The owner of a Merrillville-based business is one of 100 Black women entrepreneurs selected for grant funding from the American Express (NYSE: AXP) ‘100 for 100’ program. Brianna Hairlson, founder of Bri's Dance Place, will receive a $25,000 grant and 100 days of business resources, including education, mentorship and virtual networking.”

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