Ontario’s Downtown Rebirth: How the Retail Pop-up Program is Boosting Local Businesses and Restoring Vacant Buildings

The city of Ontario is rejuvenating its historic downtown area by focusing on revitalizing the Euclid Avenue corridor. To achieve this goal, the city has introduced an initiative that offers space for start-up businesses at a rate of $1 per month. This opportunity has attracted businesses like The Craft Collection to set up shop in the downtown area.

The Retail Pop-up Program, which provides six-month leases to approved businesses, is currently utilizing three city-owned buildings in the downtown area. According to City of Ontario Spokesperson Dan Bell, the program aims to activate vacant buildings and provide temporary homes for businesses until they secure permanent locations. While the $1 per month rate may be low for the city, it prevents these buildings from remaining empty.

The application period for the next round of businesses interested in participating in the program has closed, with over 200 prospective businesses vying for eligibility. The Retail Pop-up Program is a creative way for the city of Ontario to breathe new life into its downtown area and support local entrepreneurs.