Breathing New Life into Ontario’s Downtown: The Retail Pop-up Program Provides Opportunities for Local Entrepreneurs

The city of Ontario is investing in the revitalization of its downtown area with a focus on the Euclid Avenue corridor. As part of this initiative, the city is providing space for start-up businesses to set up shop at a low cost. The Retail Pop-up Program, which offers six-month leases to approved businesses, has already utilized three city-owned buildings in the downtown area.

City of Ontario Spokesperson Dan Bell explained that the program aims to activate vacant buildings and provide temporary homes for businesses until they can secure a permanent location. The $1 per month rate may be low, but it prevents these buildings from staying 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. This program is a creative way for the city of Ontario to breathe new life into its downtown area and support local entrepreneurs.