Downtown Pop-up Program

Up to $15,000 available to activate pop-up retail shops in vacant storefronts

A person standing inside a store with wooden floors and walls. The person is wearing a black t-shirt with the text Whip It Goods Skincare and light blue cargo pants. Behind them is a counter with teal stools and various items on display. A sign on the wall reads Whip It Goods Skincare Specialists. There is also a wreath on the wall to the left.

Greater St. Louis, Inc. (“GSL”), with support from the St. Louis Development Corporation, is accepting submissions for the Pop-Up Retail Program (the “Program”) for 2025.  Through the Program, GSL will offer grants for up to $15,000, covering up to six months of expenses incurred in connection with the short-term, pop-up activation of vacant storefronts in the Downtown and Downtown West neighborhoods of the City of St. Louis. 

The program’s goal is to partner with current and prospective tenants to transform vacancy into vibrant activation. By reducing barriers of entry to aspiring business owners, the Program hopes to increase daytime and nighttime street vibrancy, safety, and economic health through active storefronts that enhance the public experience. The Program seeks to create an atmosphere in storefronts that will lead to business development and potential permanent residency in these locations. 

Eligible Applicants 

The following individuals and businesses are eligible to apply for the Program: 

  • Prospective tenants in Downtown and Downtown West considering opening a location as a pop-up 
  • Current tenants in Downtown and Downtown West considering opening a second location as a pop-up 

All applicants must have the consent of their current or prospective landlord and/or building owner to perform the work in question.  If an applicant does not have a space identified, GSL may help identify a suitable space and willing property owner.

Eligible Uses 

Reimbursable expenses directly associated with the project include but are not limited to:

  • Monthly rent
  • Utilities
  • Labor
  • Maintenance of the space during occupancy
  • General liability insurance

Successful applicants will propose concepts that appeal broadly to a diverse customer base, complement businesses in the area, and provide memorable experiences for customers and window shoppers.  

How to Apply and Next Steps 

  1. Read the Pop-Up Retail program guidelines and review the application linked below.
  2. Submit the following information to DowntownRetail@greaterstinc.com to confirm your eligibility for the program:
    1. Proposed pop-up concept 
    2. Ideal square footage of the space
    3. Preferred location for the pop-up (if already known) 
  3. Upon confirmation of eligibility, fill out and submit the Pop-Up Retail Program application and requested materials.
  4. If approved for a grant, enter into reimbursement agreement with GSL.
  5. Enter into a lease with property owner and receive reimbursement pursuant to agreement with GSL. 
  6. Celebrate your contribution to the revitalization of our great Downtown! 
DOWNLOAD THE GUIDELINES & APPLICATION