Anniston, AL – The City of Anniston’s Main Street Department, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new Small Box Shop on Monday, September 23, at 10:00 AM CT. Located at 114 West 11th Street, this retail incubator provides a unique opportunity for local entrepreneurs to test their business ideas and work toward securing a permanent storefront in downtown Anniston.
The Small Box Shop, managed by Anniston’s Main Street Department, aims to foster local entrepreneurship by offering business owners an affordable, short-term space to introduce their products to the community. The incubator’s structure includes a six-month lease, with the possibility of extending for another six months, allowing businesses up to one year to develop their operations before transitioning into a more permanent location.
“This incubator aligns with our goal of promoting local entrepreneurship,” said Karla Eden, Executive Director of the City of Anniston’s Main Street Department. “The Small Box Shop offers a six-month lease, allowing business owners to test their products in the local market while preparing for a transition into a permanent downtown location.”
To apply, potential tenants must submit a business plan along with their application. Businesses that successfully secure a spot in the program will receive guidance and support to help them grow into a brick-and-mortar location in downtown Anniston. Preference will be given to graduates of the city’s GETUP Anniston program, which helps budding entrepreneurs gain valuable skills and connections.
Mary Helmer Wirth, President and State Coordinator of Main Street Alabama, praised the initiative: “The City of Anniston’s Small Box Shop is a brilliant example of how communities can support entrepreneurial growth. By creating a space where businesses can test their concepts before fully committing to a storefront, the city is encouraging sustained investment in downtown.”
The Small Box Shop program is made possible through a USDA Rural Development Grant, underscoring Anniston’s commitment to fostering small business growth. The program has already secured its first tenant, Salads2Go, a popular vendor from the Downtown Farmer’s Market.
“Salads2Go has finalized their lease and will be our first tenant,” Eden confirmed. “We are excited to see how this incubator will enhance the vibrancy of downtown Anniston and contribute to the success of small businesses!”
For more information on the Small Box Shop, contact the City of Anniston’s Main Street Department at [email protected].
