#FLATSproject is now Accepting Applications for its Second Small Business & Community Accelerator Program

Have a great business idea but lack the opportunity to let it come to fruition? FLATS Chicago, announces the second #FLATSproject (www.flatschicago.com/flats-project). With a mission to support the local community, FLATSproject is a Small Business and Community Accelerator Program. Designed to give entrepreneurs the opportunity to apply for a chance to be awarded a prize package giving one lucky winner the necessities to take the leap to a brick and mortar business.

Applications are now being accepted to win a beautiful store front retail space in the Historic Lawrence House, which is one of the largest anticipated properties in the FLATS portfolio. FLATSproject is awarding a business package valued at over $100,000.00 in benefits including a free year of rent. “The package also includes support from the City of Chicago, access to our design team, business plan refresh, marketing support, all legal work associated with starting a company and more.” said Alex Samoylovich, co-founder and managing partner at CEDARst.

The applicants must submit a succinct and thorough presentation (this may be in the form of a video) of how and why their business will benefit the local community of the 1000 block of Lawrence and the 46th Ward. Full details are available on the #FLATSproject website. Applicants are encouraged to be creative – and demonstrate what makes their business special. “We give residents a chance to vote on the local business they would like to see in their storefront unit, along with social media engagement the other decision makers include the community and city of Chicago leadership and ultimately the partners at CEDARst” said Samoylovich.  

In 2014 entrepreneur Michael Stejskal beat out 40 other hopeful business owners and opened The Public Barber (1325 W. Wilson). “It was a dream come true, and I continue to grow and enjoy coming to work every day and being part of the community” said Stejskal who now has 4 employees and is looking to bring a few more on soon.

The second #FLATSproject is located in Uptown, inside the historic Lawrence House. This twelve-story building will have multiple retail spaces below 373 apartments. The winner already has a neighbor in FLATS Chicago exclusive partner Heritage Outpost. The property is located near some of Uptown’s most popular historic landmarks such as the Aragon Ballroom, Riviera Theatre, and the legendary Green Mill. Conveniently located one block from Wilson CTA Red Line and two blocks from Lake Shore Drive.

Submissions will be accepted until May 20th, 2016. The winner of #FLATSproject will be announced at the Lawrence House grand opening. For more information please visit www.flatschicago.com