The Batavia MainStreet group is now accepting applications for the 2027 season of the Boardwalk Shops, a small business incubator program in downtown Batavia.
The program features 10 12- by 12-foot shops at the corner of Wilson and River streets, adjacent to the Batavia Farmers Market.
Applications are open through Jan. 15, 2027, according to a press release from Batavia MainStreet.
Entering its eighth season, the Batavia Boardwalk Shops program aims to provide entrepreneurs with an opportunity to test a new concept, expand into a new market or pilot a downtown retail location in a low-risk setting, program officials said.
“We’re always looking for businesses that bring something new to downtown Batavia,” said Kristen Desler, assistant director of Batavia MainStreet, in the release. “As we look toward our eighth season, we’re being intentional about identifying gaps in our current retail offerings while continuing to welcome the unique, creative and entrepreneurial businesses that have made the Boardwalk Shops so successful.”
Since the program began in 2020, Boardwalk Shops participants have generated more than $2.4 million in sales, according to the release. More than 25 businesses that have taken part in the program have gone on to open permanent brick-and-mortar locations, Batavia MainStreet officials said.
The 2027 season will run from May 7 through Dec. 19, with required operating hours of 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Selected businesses will receive ongoing support from Batavia MainStreet throughout the season, including training, business development resources and regional marketing opportunities, according to the release.
Applicants will be invited to interview with the jury committee during the fall and winter, with selections for the new season of Boardwalk Shops announced by Jan. 31, 2027.
Previous Boardwalk Shops participants are welcome to reapply, though shop placement is not guaranteed, officials said.
For more information about the Boardwalk Shops or to apply, go to downtownbatavia.com, email [email protected] or call 630-761-3528.