Vancouver’s Downtown Association has once again created an initiative to spark activity and attract small businesses into the downtown/ main Street Core.
If you haven’t been paying close attention because of all the focus on the Waterfront , there continues to be a steady flow of new service, retail, and small tech firms over the past two years, into the downtown, and there is significant construction in process.
With all of that the VDA has upped their game again with the Launch pad.
https://www.facebook.com/vdausa360/videos/574906213337032/
WHAT IS THE LAUNCHPAD?
It is a regional competition providing an incentive package worth up to $40,000 for one selected retail business that will open in Vancouver’s downtown in 2020, creating a launchpad for the area’s next creative and entrepreneurial retail idea.
WHO CAN APPLY?
The competition is open to all legal U.S. residents, 18 years of age and older at the time of entry. The winner must open their business within competition boundaries from the 5th street north to Mill Plain, and I-5 west to Kauffman before the end of 2020 to receive the incentive package.
Proposed businesses must be for-profit, independent operation or franchised. Any new or exisitng business idea is eligible, including local businesses that apply as an expansion. Preference will be given to business that is bring a new element to our downtown.
WHAT IS THE DEADLINE?
Applications must be received by midnight on January 31st.
HOW WILL THE WINNERS BE CHOSEN?
Semi-finalists will be picked from all qualifying applications by a selection panel of downtown stakeholders. The finalists will be selected after a review of their submitted business plan. The winner to be chosen based on a final presentation to the selection panel.
WHEN WILL THE WINNERS BE ANNOUNCED?
The competition winner will be announced as a part of Small Business Week in May 2020.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
Download application materials at the VDA website
Consider joining Vancouver’s Downtown Association.
Developing a vibrant downtown core takes many steps, consistent investment and effort by both Landlords, Government Agencies, and existing businesses. It is exciting to see the progress.
