Business

Batavia Boardwalk Shops 2025 application closes Jan. 10

Posted December 23, 2024 7:17 am

Daily Herald report

Applications for the popular Batavia Boardwalk Shops business incubator spaces are due by Jan. 10. Courtesy of Batavia MainStreet

Applications for the popular Batavia business incubator spaces are due by Jan. 10.

Any budding business that wants to propel itself to the next level can apply for one of Batavia MainStreet’s 10 12x12 Batavia Boardwalk Shops spaces available. The cluster of tiny shops is on the corner of Wilson and River Streets in Batavia. For more information or to apply visit https://downtownbatavia.com/vendor-application/.

The program is designed to attract small businesses, create more retail shopping, and bring people into downtown Batavia to experience this unique destination and the rest of downtown.

“This season we’ve had visitors from 200 unique ZIP codes shop the Boardwalk,” said Batavia MainStreet Assistant Director Kristen Desler.

Over the last five seasons, the Batavia Boardwalk Shops have had 21 businesses move to a permanent location following their season with 10 businesses currently occupying brick-and-mortar space in downtown Batavia.

The program has grown over the years to include mentorship from former Boardwalk Shop owners, specialized training from the Small Business Development Center and the Women’s Business Development Center, and online learning opportunities.

“We want our Boardwalk Shop tenants to leave with as much information and experience as possible to make an informed decision about the future of their business,” Desler said.

Applications for the popular Batavia business incubator spaces are due by Jan. 10. The program is designed to attract small businesses, create more retail shopping, and bring people into downtown Batavia. Courtesy of Batavia MainStreet

Prospective tenants can learn more about the program, fees, and all the Boardwalk Shops provide at https://downtownbatavia.com/batavia-boardwalk-vendor-info/.

The shops are scheduled to begin their sixth season on May 9, 2025, and allow business owners to rent space, showcase their wares and services, and learn how to successfully manage a store.

“We are looking for unique vendors to add variety in our existing downtown retail,” Desler said.

A jury committee reviews all applications, taking diversity in vendor offerings into consideration. Previous Boardwalk businesses can reapply, but are not guaranteed a shop, depending on the variety of applications submitted and jury evaluation. Email info@downtownbatavia.com or call (630) 761-3528 for more information.

Applications for the popular Batavia business incubator spaces are due by Jan. 10. The cluster of tiny shops is on the corner of Wilson and River Streets in Batavia. Courtesy of Batavia MainStreet

Article Comments

Article Categories
Batavia Business Communities Retail and Shopping

Article Comments

Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.