Launch and Build

For many small business owners, getting from an online shop, farmers market booth, or occasional pop-up to a permanent storefront is an exciting goal. It can also be a big leap.

Downtown Farmington is creating a little more room to take that leap.

The Farmington Downtown Development Authority’s new Retail LAB, which stands for Launch And Build, gives emerging retailers an opportunity to test their business in a real brick-and-mortar setting without immediately committing to a traditional long-term lease. Through 90-day storefront residencies, entrepreneurs can experience what it is like to operate on Main Street, connect with customers, build their following, and learn what works for their business.

The approximately 400-square-foot storefront at 23607 Farmington Road is designed as a stepping stone, not necessarily a final destination. Participants can use the experience to determine whether a permanent storefront makes sense for their business and, ideally, position themselves for that next move. The first Retail LAB participant is The Lowry Estate, a vintage and designer resale boutique owned by Corliss Elizabeth Williams.

At Wright Beamer, we enjoy seeing programs like the Retail LAB create practical opportunities for small businesses to grow. A successful business does not always start with a storefront, a long-term lease, or a fully formed plan. Sometimes, it starts with an idea, a few customers, and the opportunity to see what happens next. The Retail LAB gives local entrepreneurs a place to do exactly that, right here in Downtown Farmington.

If you have a business that’s ready to launch and build, the Retail LAB application can be found online.