Minority business owners now have a chance to take part in a program aimed at bringing more diversity to the Riverchase Galleria.
Brookfield Properties, the owner of the Galleria, has opened applications for its Partner To Empower program through March 24.
Michelle Isabel, vice president of retail business development at Brookfield Properties, said the program is open to local minority entrepreneurs, or those who wish to expand their businesses.
The program has benefited, in other cities, everything from martial arts studios to hair salons to bakeries.
“It can be traditional retailers or services you don’t necessarily see in every shopping center,” Isabel said. “Don’t be afraid to apply. A lot of people think it’s too good to be true. If they’re ready to go, they should definitely apply.”
Created in 2020, the program launched a year later and is available in more than 100 of Brookfield’s properties.
It assists businesses through funding, resources and retail expertise. The selected applicants will receive one-on-one planning, networking opportunities and resources, funding for store construction expenses, and a four-week retail workshop.
About 160 businesses nationally have participated in the program’s retail workshop, and it is responsible for more than 40 minority-owned businesses in Brookfield’s footprint nationwide.
“Our goal is to break down the barriers of systemic racism by providing entrepreneurs with an opportunity to create generational wealth and legacies that will last for years to come,” Isabel said.
For more information and to apply, visit the website.
