The Habitat for Neighborhood Business (Habitat), organized in 2006, is a volunteer 501(c)(3) organization that develops retail and service business centers in eonomically distressed neighborhoods .Through a unique incubation program, the Habitat strives to revitalize neighborhoods with new economic activity, job growth, and business role models for youth as well as other citizens. We actively recruit residents of these neighborhoods who possess the ability and desire to run a business in their community. Our goal is to help residents develop sustainable businesses that will anchor neighborhood restoration. Located in a storefront owned or leased by the Habitat, the business owner recieves discounted rent along with the following business nourishment designed to insure success of the business.
Business nourishment includes:
Start Up and Fast Trac business operations training program 50% subsidized by the Habitat
Assistance with development of a Business Plan
Assistance in locating start-up business loans
Assigned a 2 person mentoring board to assist in implementation of Business Plan a business executive from a local business and an MBA student from St Louis University
Assistance with store design and start-up operations such as point-of-sale training, banking arrangements, credit card accepatance, etc.
Below market rents starting at 50% of market rates in year 1.