"It's A Major Award!" - Uptown United Receives Grant To Host a Weekly Indoor Market On Wilson Avenue

Uptown United has been selected as one of 15 recipients of grants from the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) as part of the Small Business Storefront Activation Program.

According to a statement put out by the city:

"The selected organizations, known as “grantees,” will work with small business owners and landlords to provide rapid relief to small businesses by activating vacant storefronts into burgeoning business spaces. The grantees will work to transform commercial corridors citywide, from the renowned Michigan Avenue to corridors in Pilsen, Humboldt Park, Uptown, and Chatham.  Full program details can be found by visiting Chicago.gov/BACPRecoveryPlan."

Sarah Wilson, the executive director of Uptown United, says:

"The 2023 Storefront Activation Program will enable Uptown United to lease a long-vacant storefront on Wilson Avenue and host a weekly indoor market in 2024. Many vendors will come from the Chicago Market’s Uptown Farmers Market during the winter months and makers and additional vendors in the summer and fall months. 

"The 2023 Storefront Activation Program will allow us to educate and incubate local food producers and new ideas. Cross-promotion with the Uptown Farmers Market will encourage foot traffic along the Wilson Avenue Commercial corridor, supporting both the pop-up vendors and existing bars, restaurants, and other businesses."

Congratulations, and well done, Uptown United!