Project Pop-Up

Project Pop-Up is an innovative initiative that provides entrepreneurs with an opportunity to activate a pop-up retail shop in a vacant storefront in Downtown Pittsburgh. Selected applicants can occupy and transform these spaces for up to 12 months, helping create a more vibrant street-level environment in Downtown.

APPLICATIONS ARE CURRENTLY CLOSED
Thank you for your interest.

About Project Pop-Up

In collaboration with Downtown property owners and through the generous support of the Hillman Foundation, Project Pop-Up is currently seeking applications from prospective pop-up retail businesses to transform vacant storefronts into vibrant, activated spaces, creating new and exciting destinations in Downtown Pittsburgh.

While retail occupancy in the Golden Triangle is currently at a robust 92.1%, the goal of this initiative is to implement storefront concepts that will further contribute to Downtown’s growing small business community. Activation can range from six months to one year, with the potential for extended occupancy.

Program Benefits

• Easy to apply. Just fill out the application linked below.
• Rent-free lease terms. Through Project Pop-Up you won’t pay rent for the first 6-12 months in your storefront.
• Partnership possibilities. You can share the space with another entrepreneur or collaborate on a concept together.
• Financial incentives. Grants of up to $15,000 per storefront will be granted to cover expenses like utilities, setup, maintenance, insurance, events, and implementing the pop-up concept.
• Built-in customer base. Downtown thrives as a vibrant neighborhood, attracting a constant flow of visitors, residents, and workers. Capitalize on the existing customer base and contribute to the expanding foot traffic in the area.

READY TO APPLY?

Make sure you read the full program description and requirements before filling out your online application.

Download full program overview

How to Apply:

1. Review the full Project Pop-Up program overview and requirements.
2. Submit an online application via the link below.

Timeline:

Apply by:
Monday, September 4, 2023

Questions?

Please contact Cate Irvin, Director of Economic Development at cirvin@downtownpittsburgh.com or 412-325-0157 with questions regarding the program, application, or other Project Pop-Up related inquiries.