The Downtown Partnership’s BOOST (Black-Owned and Occupied Storefront Tenancy) Program is excited to expand grant opportunities with the new Harborplace Incubator.
Donor Name: Downtown Partnership of Baltimore
State: Maryland
City: Baltimore
Type of Grant: Program
Deadline: 10/06/2023
Size of the Grant: Up to $20,000 – 25,000
Details:
In partnership with MCB Real Estate and The Mayor’s Office, Downtown Partnership presents the BOOST Harborplace Local Tenancy Program, supporting 7 grants for Baltimore-based entrepreneurs to set up short-term retail locations at the most iconic mall in Downtown Baltimore.
The Downtown BOOST Program is seeking entrepreneurs that…
- Present a strong business plan—Applicants should demonstrate in their application they can successfully execute their concept, as evidenced by financial performance, employment levels, and capital reserves.
- Create a broad community impact—Priority will be given to businesses that seek to cross-pollinate with other businesses Downtown and provide signature experiences for both local residents and visitors.
- Have original ideas—Businesses must be creative and unique for Downtown Baltimore. Priority will be given to businesses that offer services or products that do not exist anywhere else in Baltimore.
- Support Downtown Baltimore’s recovery—Applicants should demonstrate in their application how their store will increase local foot traffic and attract new customers to Downtown Baltimore in the post-COVID economy.
Funding Information
If selected to be a part of the BOOST Harborplace Incubator Program, you will receive…
- Up to $20,000 – 25,000 toward the interior improvements and set-up of the retail space.
- An affordable lease at one of 7 locations listed in BOOST Harborplace Tenant Opportunities document in the Application Materials section.
- Robust technical, legal, marketing, zoning and permitting, and accounting support through the BOOST Cohort program, a short but intense business support and educational component required to receive the grant.
Eligibility Criteria
In order to qualify for the Downtown BOOST Program applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements.
- Retail businesses that have been operational and registered with the state of Maryland for at least 1 year, with preference for applicants of color
- Applicants should currently employ at least 2 employees.
- Qualifying retail businesses includes any small business that will operate an open, activated storefront in which goods and services are exchanged, including: include food and beverage establishments, clothing stores, markets, and specialty retailers.
- Businesses should be currently operating in the Greater Baltimore area, with priority given to those based in Baltimore City.
For more information, visit DPB.
