Protein Pints
The scoop on protein.
proteinpints.com
Founded by childhood friends and Hudsonville, Michigan natives Paul Reiss and Michael Meadows, Protein Pints has redefined the frozen dessert market with a unique, health-conscious product. Their journey began in a home kitchen and evolved through a collaboration with Michigan State University’s dairy plant, where they leveraged advanced food science and innovative manufacturing techniques to perfect their formula.
The company’s product stands out by using a proprietary process to expertly blend all-natural, gluten-free ingredients, ensuring each pint delivers 30 grams of protein without compromising on the rich, indulgent taste of traditional ice cream. This technical innovation has earned the brand significant recognition and success, including winning the grand prize at the 2024 Rice Business Plan Competition.
Protein Pints’ strong ties to Michigan are a cornerstone of their story, from their development at MSU to early distribution in Michigan-based retailers like Meijer. The brand has since expanded to over 8,000 stores nationwide with major retailers like Kroger and Target, and is projected to be a $20M business in 2025, proving that their commitment to both flavor and function has made them a disruptive force in the industry.
Key Accomplishments
-
8,000+ retail stores nationwide, including Meijer, Target, and Kroger
-
A $20M+ business in 2025
-
Won the largest student pitch competition in the world
-
Grand Prize winner of the 2024 Rice Business Plan Competition
-
4 full-time Michigan employees
-
Hudsonville Ice Cream based in Holland is their third party logistics provider, creating additional jobs in Michigan

Michigan SBDC Assistance
Tech Team Consulting
-
Strategic Planning
-
Business Strategy
-
Business Plan Review
-
Partner and Investor Strategy
-
Elevator and Investor Pitch Preparation
-
Investor Pitch Preparation
-
Investor Pitch Deck Review
-
Marketing Strategy
Additional Support From
-
Michigan State University Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation – $25,000
-
Eastern Michigan University – $25,000
-
University of Michigan – $15,000
Published September 2025
Related Client Stories
Sharp & Flat
Sharp & Flat’s mission is to pioneer musical innovations that make music and music...
Side Door
Side Door is a real estate technology platform that empowers homebuyers and sellers to...
Rasta
RASTA provides instant gunshot detection and location technology designed specifically for schools.