FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kristin Palm
Date: January 30, 2018
Phone: (313) 483-1326
Email: kpalm@wayne.edu
TechTown’s Retail Bootcamp Expands, Spring 2018 Applications Open
Program helps promising Detroit retailers launch brick-and-mortar businesses
TechTown Detroit is now accepting applications for its 2018 Retail Boot Camp, an intensive, eight-week program that prepares serious, Detroit-based entrepreneurs for the opening of their brick-and-mortar retail establishments. In addition to training, RBC provides access to start-up capital, affordable space and ongoing business support.
Retail Boot Camp is open to businesses located in (or willing to relocate to) Detroit who have proof of retail experience, funding sources and a strong value proposition. Each weekly, three-hour classroom session consists of coursework with business development and retail experts, and supported work on a business plan. Substantial out-of-class work will be required. Spring 2018 classes run April 3-June 5. Due to overwhelming popularity, TechTown has expanded the program to twice yearly and will offer another session in the fall.
The program culminates with a June 5 Showcase, where five graduates will be awarded prize packages valued at up to $5,000, and which include a subsidized permanent or pop-up location, a point-of-sale system, an inventory subsidy and/or a professional services package (design, social media, legal, financial). Upon graduation, participants have the opportunity to participate in TechTown’s SWOT City program, which provides customized, one-on-one small business consulting. The cost for the eight-week course is $499.
“Retail Boot Camp helps promising retailers with strong concepts get turn-key ready for the successful launch of their business in Detroit,” says Sarah Donnelly, TechTown’s Retail Services Director. “Our businesses are getting open, staying open and making a meaningful difference in neighborhoods across the city.”
Retail Boot Camp has gained a reputation for launching successful and much-anticipated businesses that are catalyzing neighborhood commercial districts, including Ashe Supply Co., The D. String, House of Pure Vin, Live Cycle Delight, Mama Coo’s Boutique, Paramita Sound, Plum Health, Provisions, Sfumato Fragrances and Third Wave Music.
Applicants are encouraged to attend one of three information sessions across Detroit:
• February 6, 6-8pm at Grand River WorkPlace, 19120 Grand River Ave.
• February 13, 6-8pm at Mack Market, 14711 Mack Ave.
• February 27, 6-8pm at TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs
Retail Boot Camp supporters include JPMorgan Chase Foundation and New Economy Initiative.
Applications will be accepted through March 2. To apply or for more information, visit techtowndetroit.org/retailbootcamp.
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TechTown is Detroit’s entrepreneurship hub, with a full suite of programs for both tech and neighborhood small businesses. TechTown works with businesses at all stages, helping startup, emerging and established companies develop, launch and grow.