Retail Incubator

Welcome To Downtown Traverse City’s New Retail Incubator – The Cass Street Marketplace!

As the dedicated stewards of Downtown Traverse City, the DDA has been instrumental in fostering a vibrant and economically thriving city center. Our mission is clear: to propel economic growth and cultivate a world-class downtown that is not only bustling and inclusive, but also a hub for culture, arts, commerce, ingenuity and entrepreneurship. Downtown Traverse City’s success is intrinsically linked to its distinctive storefront economy, with a remarkable concentration of local independent businesses. Approximately 94% of downtown retail or restaurant spaces are home to one-of-a-kind or “chainlets”, regional tenants with a handful of other locations.

Our Retail Incubator

Recognizing the importance of nurturing this cherished retail experience, the DDA is thrilled to unveil The Cass Street Market Place, our upcoming retail incubator. Set to launch in the fall of 2023, this endeavor will help cultivate a thriving ecosystem of retail entrepreneurs.

Holiday Pop-Up Shopping Event

The Traverse City Downtown Development Authority (DDA) will be hosting a one-day Holiday Pop-Up Shopping Event at the Cass Street Marketplace (retail incubator), on Saturday December 16^th from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The Cass Street Marketplace Retail Incubator is located at 116 Cass Street, in the Keen Building (next to the Pub).

The holiday pop-up shopping event will feature seven retail entrepreneurs, offering a variety of goods including, swimwear and apparel, leather bags, jewelry and other unique gifts. The holiday pop-up event will also include hot chocolate and an opportunity to win downtown gift certificates. Hope to see you there!

Join the Retail Renaissance!

Are you excited about redefining retail? Do you want to be part of an ecosystem that champions innovation and entrepreneurship? If you are interested in becoming a tenant at The Cass Street Marketplace, please fill out the application below. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. The application window for the initial selection of tenants has been extended until October 13^th. We anticipate the Cass Street Marketplace will still be open and ready for customers by mid-November.

Cass Street Marketplace Application

Together, lets shape the future of retail in downtown Traverse City – a future that’s dynamic, diverse and destined for greatness.

For more information, click here.