By any measure, the Downtown Farmers’ Market in Des Moines, IA, is massive. One of the largest markets in the nation, it has grown to span 12 downtown blocks.
The Greater Des Moines Partnership aims to attract both established vendors and startups, but the event is so big that it can be intimidating. The solution led to a pipeline of new businesses for the market and for brick and mortar locations.
In 2022, the Partnership launched the Spark DSM Business Incubator. The initiative sets aside three booths for new vendors and tutors them on the basics of business planning, financial management, marketing, regulatory compliance, and networking. Participants also receive a custom banner with their branding, two stools, a whiteboard, a six-foot table, a tent, and T-shirts.
More on the Spark DSM Business Incubator appears in the March issue of Downtown Idea Exchange newsletter.
Click below to learn more about Downtown Idea Exchange and other resources for revitalizing downtowns and commercial corridors.
