The first year is crucial to the success of any small business, and rent is usually the biggest make-it-or-break-it factor.
Working with several partners, the BIA is running a promotion called “Win this Space”. It’s open to any prospective or currently operating business. “Perhaps they’re working out of their home presently, their garage,” remarks BIA executive director Cindy Campbell. “We want them to have the comfort that if they take their ideas and they put it into actual business, they can have a rent-free storefront for a year, if they win the contest.”
BIA special projects coordinator Nadia Piccottii says the contest involves participating in night-time workshops on compiling a business plan, which is then entered for judging.
“It is up to the grand prize winner to negotiated with a landlord in a downtown location,” Piccotti adds.
Details are at downtowntimmins.com.