The City of Elyria (the “City”) is introducing its first-ever Downtown Retail Pop-up Shop Program. The
program calls for qualified small businesses looking to grow into brick-and-mortar stores. The program
will bolster the downtown retail sector by providing selected applicants with technical support in
obtaining permits, introductions to the Elyria Community Partnership (ECP), and the opportunity to test
the local market.
The City will offer selected vendors a short-term occupation permit of City-owned commercial tenant
space for no cost for up to three (3) months, including free utilities and public Wi-Fi. The available tenant
space is located in the heart of downtown Elyria at City Hall. Selected applicants must provide proof of
commercial general liability insurance, apply for all necessary operating permits and sign a license
agreement that contains a liability waiver.
The City is committed to promoting downtown Elyria’s vibrancy and economic prosperity as well as
supporting small business owners by allowing them an opportunity to expand their business without the
high start-up costs. The program complements the suite of existing downtown programs, which are
essential to the economic resurgence of downtown Elyria.
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis and space will be made available on first come – first
serve basis to eligible businesses. The City reserves and retains the right to decline any Application for
the use of any City property, and/or deny any proposed use and/or event, if the City determines that a
proposed use would be inconsistent with the character of the City, could negatively impact the safety,
security, maintenance, protection and/or preservation of City property, and/or would otherwise be
inconsistent with and/or may negatively impact public safety or violate any applicable laws, rules or
regulations. The City has absolute discretion to accept or deny any Application as it deems fit based
upon the City’s goals for this program.
Please click below for the Frequently Asked Questions and Application. Completed applications may be
dropped off at the Mayor’s Office, 3rd Floor City Hall.