The Chamber hosts “Demo Day” for inaugural cohort of its Retail Storefront Accelerator; opens application for 2nd cohort
On Wednesday, January 22 the Chamber held Demo Day for the inaugural cohort of its Retail Storefront Accelerator, which is powered by our partners at Quay Acceleration and Wells Fargo.
Over the past six months, this program has empowered eight exceptional retail founders to take their businesses from vision to reality, equipping them with the tools, mentorship, and strategies needed to open their first brick-and-mortar storefronts in Manhattan. Of the eight participating founders in the first cohort, seven are women-owned businesses, and five are minority-owned, reflecting the program's commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in Manhattan’s retail landscape.
At the Demo Day event, they shared their next steps and what help is still needed to open their store in Manhattan. Additional speakers included Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, Senior Advisor to US Senator Gillibrand Jacina Chen, and Krissy Moore, the Senior Vice President for Community Relations in the northeast for Wells Fargo.
The Chamber is now seeking applications for the second cohort of its accelerator which will work with up to 12 business owners. >>Learn more here.
Meet our 2024 Cohort
Sade Mims l EDAS- EDAS, founded in 2015 by designer Sade Mims in NYC, is a contemporary lifestyle brand for eclectic individuals. Rooted in community and storytelling, EDAS specializes in refined accessories that blend thoughtful design with inclusivity, redefining retail with exceptional, budget-conscious products for all.
Imani Schectman l We Are Open Market Inc.- Open Market is a socially responsible marketplace spotlighting BIPOC and POC brands to foster equity and sustainability. Blending retail and technology, we feature beauty, home decor, grocery, apparel, accessories, and wellness. Through curated experiences, we celebrate diversity, build community, and drive economic growth, while creating opportunities to redistribute capital and support emerging brands
Kayy Finn l strawberryzskies LLC- Where art meets mental wellness, strawberryzskies LLC creates a movement that transforms how we approach mental health through creative expression and community building. Through our wearable art, engaging events, and brand partnerships, we’re breaking down stigmas and fostering open dialogue about mental health.
Lya Pouleyy I The Concept Store by Lya Pouleyy- The Concept Store by Lya Pouleyy is a shop where Lya makes art and creations available for purchase. The store aims to host a third-place area where events take place, a community grows and people can connect.
Emma Enriquez I Valluna- Valluna is an immersive art and retail company that bridges culture and commerce through memorable events. Founded by an artist and an international events manager, Valluna uses cutting-edge projection mapping, soundscapes, and installations, offering exclusive merchandise by NYC artists.
Yasmely Lopez I Yasmely's Delights - At Yasmely's Delights, we blend tradition and innovation, offering single-serving cakes, cheesecakes, puddings, and pies. As a NYC street vendor, we cater to busy New Yorkers on the go, with plans to open a flagship Manhattan store.
Calvin Martin I GÜDSPORT- We're a fitness and lifestyle brand that prides itself on team culture, results-driven workouts, and community expansion. We currently offer 4 group training classes per week/16 per month. Our workouts are much deeper than fitness itself - we provide an experience.
Ramona Wilmes I MONA WIE- At MONA WIE, we craft timeless, minimalist pieces that empower women with effortless elegance. Our sustainable designs and high-quality fabrics are a canvas for self-expression while standing the test of time. Choose from our ready-to-wear collection or opt for made-to-measure pieces.
