Project: PopUp

River City Company launched Project: PopUp in the spring of 2012 with the goal of allowing five budding business owners to test out their concept for six months rent free in the hopes of signing a long term lease at the program’s end. Along with $95,000 in rent assistance, business owners received façade grants, $20,000 in creative marketing for the program duration, $25,000 of general support as well as 15 hours per business in professional development classes led by successful local entrepreneurs and businesses.

With the official grand opening in September 2012, the 800 Block of Chestnut Street has seen a retail resurgence with the majority of spaces currently occupied. With Sewn to the Sky still in the original location, a hair salon, a custom makeup boutique and a variety of restaurants now call the once vacant storefronts home. The program produced approximately 30 jobs.

The program was sponsored by: River City Company, Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel and Berry & Hunt.