RE:Store FAQ
Who is the Downtown Alliance?
The Downtown Alliance is the Business Improvement District for Lower Manhattan roughly south of City Hall all the way down to the Battery.
How do I apply?
Visit our website in early January and follow instructions to submit your application.
How will the Alliance choose businesses to participate?
The Alliance will review all applications and the finalists will be evaluated by a committee of retail experts who know the neighborhood and how to succeed here.
Am I eligible for this program?
In order to be considered for this opportunity you/your business must have the following:
- Intent to generate revenue through the pop-up, either through retail sales, event ticketing or another means. We are not seeking a tenant who is using the space exclusively as a workshop, office or studio space.
- Retail focus — no on-site food and/or beverage preparation. Distribution from offsite licensed production facility or kitchen allowed.
- Minimum hours of operation – we encourage businesses to be open as much as possible, with a minimum commitment to 5 days per week and/or at least one weekend day and one day with evening hours.
- Experience with retail operations in New York City, with a preference for experience operating a storefront.
Where will this take place? What storefronts are available?
Final storefronts have not been selected but potential spaces for this activation will be located in prominent high traffic corridors in Lower Manhattan like Broadway and Wall Street. Spaces may vary in size from approximately 3,000 sf to 15,000 sf and will have visibility and entrance from the sidewalk. Tenants may be asked to share space with another retailer.
What can I use the grant funding for?
Grant funding will be provided to accepted activators for tenant improvements and operating expenses, as approved by the Downtown Alliance.
Can I make the space my own?
There will be a short period of time and modest grant funding for tenant improvement and fit out of the space. Please note the temporary nature of this activation, which will require flexibility, creativity and quick turnaround to make the most of the allotted free space.
If my pop-up is successful, can I extend my stay?
Part of the Downtown Alliance’s mission is to help businesses find a home and prosper in Lower Manhattan. While we hope this program contributes to that goal, all lease agreements beyond the terms of this program would be negotiated between the property owner and the potential tenant.
What is the timeline? When can we expect to be open for business?
- Application open: January 12, 2026
- Application due: February 6, 2026
- Notification to accepted tenants: March 23, 2026
- Build-out/tenant improvement: approximately April – May 2026
- Opening day: Memorial Day 2026
- Closing day: September 15, 2026
- Vacate space: latest September 22, 2026