News release from CreateHereNow, a program of the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) initiating its pilot venture in Bridgeport with a focus on creating new business start-ups and showcasing the arts community:
The City of Bridgeport has been selected as the first site of CreateHereNow, a pilot program with the goal of creating sustainable placemaking initiatives in 19 municipalities throughout Connecticut. Entrepreneurs interested in space reuse and creative, small business development are invited to take part in this pioneering initiative and can learn more as part of the “New Year/New Business” campaign with an open house event on Thursday, February 7th from 5-7:30pm.
CreateHereNow is collaboration between the State of Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), The City of Bridgeport Downtown Special Services District (DSSD) and The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County (CAFC).
The program is presently seeking pre-applicants to explore their entrepreneurial business ideas. Eligible participants include creative enterprise start-ups, non-profits, groups interested in co-working spaces, and established businesses that are interested in testing a satellite location or relocating to Downtown Bridgeport. Special preference will be shown to Bridgeport residents and Connecticut residents, but CreateHereNow Bridgeport is open to residents from all states.
“This is a ground-breaking opportunity for participants to be a part of a creative expansion in downtown Bridgeport’s future activities hub,” said Project Manager Eve Liptak.
CreateHereNow will build on recent successful placemaking programs in Bridgeport, expanding existing partnerships and fostering new markets. Partnerships of artists, property owners, local businesses, municipalities, schools, and social service organizations will coalesce around this project. The CreateHereNow team will work alongside entrepreneurs at each site, mentoring developers towards a shared goal of building a creatively energized and vital community.
Those interested in learning more are encouraged to attend our events on site at our office at 1042 Broad Street, Bridgeport, CT 06604:
February 7th, 5-7:30pm: “New Year/New Business”
Details: An open house event where interested parties are invited to learn about the CreateHereNow program, discuss ideas and questions, receive applications, and network with fellow artists and entrepreneurs. Refreshments will be provided.
February 12th, 5-7: Info Session
February 14th, 11-1: Info Session
February 19th, 5-7: Info Session
February 21st: 11-1: Info Session
For more information please visit us online at www.createherenow.org and follow us on Facebook at Facebook.com/createherenowbpt. Pre-applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Reviews and acceptance notifications will be announced shortly thereafter.
We have invited them to come to Bridgeport Now to give them some publicity–not that you are not enough Lennie–hope they come on the show–we are in great support of downtown development!