Campbell River is opening applications for its four Micro Market spaces for local businesses to occupy.
Four small retail spaces will be opening up in Campbell River this summer, and the city is now accepting applications to occupy the space.
The city is opening a Micro Market on Shoppers Row, intended to be a “hub of creativity and community engagement.”
The stalls will be available to rent for short-term leases of 12 to 36 months and will also offer mentorship and guidance to the tenants to help grow their businesses.
“We are excited to launch this new initiative, which reflects our commitment to supporting local talent and fostering economic growth in our community,” said Kermit Dahl, Campbell River’s mayor.
“The Campbell River Micro Market is not just a place to shop — it’s a platform for entrepreneurship, innovation, and collaboration, and we’re excited to explore the new offerings that will feature there this summer.”
The units are all 8×20 feet and aim to provide space for home- or market-based businesses looking to grow into a retail location.
The cost to rent a unit is $400 per month, and vendors will also need to pay a $500 damage deposit. The city says businesses should also keep in mind the $150 cost for a business licence, and roughly $300 in other start-up costs for things like signs, locks and extinguishers, plus money for any other furniture or decorating.
Applications for the space can be found on the city’s website.
A similar project launched two years ago in Langford.
Langford opened up around 12 sea cans to be used as low-cost retail spaces for vendors looking to get a start in the market.
The space has since become a hub for the city to host events and festivals to revitalize the space in the downtown core.
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Laura Brougham
