UPTOWN — FLATS Chicago is once again accepting applications for its #FLATSproject as it looks for a local business to fill its retail space at Lawrence House in Uptown.
The #FLATSproject is "a Small Business and Community Accelerator Project" designed to give an entrepeneur the opportunity to kick-start their small business with more than $100,000 in benefits, which includes a year of free rent on the ground floor of one of FLATS buildings. Last year, the project helped The Public Barber open back in March at 1319 W. Wilson Ave. in Uptown.
"At FLATS Chicago we believe that small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities. They’re the local purveyors of meaningful goods and services, and the creators of jobs and opportunity. They’re the hardware stores that help build our community. They’re the café’s that create a sense of place in our increasingly virtual world. They’re the dedicated business owners whose very presence makes just any neighborhood our neighborhood," according to the FLATS Chicago website.
The real-estate company billed the Lawrence House space as "the mightiest" of its spaces administering "a quaint and private boutique experience" and lending "a unique experience for both the retailer and consumer." It bought the dilapidated apartment building catering to low-income residents in August 2013 calling it its "flagship property.
"We’re looking for entrepreneurs who‘ve already poured their souls into their big idea, and are looking for an opportunity to make their business a part of a vibrant, diverse Chicago neighborhood," the FLATS website said.
The project offers: free rent for a year in a space valued at about $30 per square foot; support from the City of Chicago; up to $25,000 in tenant improvement funds plus access to the FLATS design team; assistance with the business plan; a kick-off party; help with all legal work associated with starting a small business; creative capital to refresh existing brand; and professional mentorship.
When Michael Stejskal opened Public Barber at No. 1325 Wilson in March 2015, he said "it felt serendipitous how it all unfolded."
The 34-year-old former furniture designer intended to open a barbershop in Uptown regardless of the contest, but through it received a year of rent, $20,000 to build and design the shop and marketing help. It allowed him to open much quicker than he ever imagined, he said.
"I knew I wanted to be a business owner, but it was thrilling how quickly it all came together," he said. "I didn't have a chance to second guess myself and tip toe around it. Sometimes you have to just jump right into the deep end."
In Nov., Eric Reid created a Kickstarter hoping to get some initial funding for his high-end craft cocktail joint, Apothecary, which he believed would be the perfect fit for the ground floor of Lawrence House. The campaign raised over $25,000.
He was shown various places where his business might fit, but decided to wait for the contest to perfect his concept.
"I'm shooting for FLATS and hoping I present a really solid project, but if not [I'll] go to Plan B," he said. "I wanted something high-end for Uptown. I think the concept is a winning one and the need is there. [We can] be one of the first in the neighborhood."
The winner of the project is chosen by members of the community, community and city of Chicago leadership and FLATS' partners. The application is due by May 20.
For more information on applying click here.
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