We may soon see new storefronts on Broad — 10 new tenants will receive $10,000 each to open up shop in Downtown Richmond.

The money is thanks to Venture Richmond and the grant they received from the VA Dept. of Housing and Community Development. The nonprofit will recruit 10 businesses to move in + open by May 15. They’re also partnering with the Metropolitan Business League to help look for small, women, minority, and immigrant-owned businesses to take advantage of the grants.

The area, which is part of the Arts District, is already home to several iconic galleries, shops, and hotels. Think: 1708 Gallery, Quirk Hotel, Virginia Repertory Theatre, and the Urban Hang Suite. It’s bordered by the Institute for Contemporary Art to the west and City offices to the east.

Businesses should be located within the highlighted area. | Map by RICtoday

Existing or new businesses can apply for the grant, as long as they have a verified one-year minimum lease for street-level space between Belvidere + 5th Streets. Retailers, restaurants, makers, entrepreneurs, startups, and other creative businesses can all apply. See the full list of requirements here.

Grants will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, contact Lucy Meade, Director of Economic Development and Community Relations at Venture Richmond.

With new openings likely on the horizon, we want to know: what shops or restaurants do you want to see on that stretch of Broad? Let us know.

We wouldn’t say no to some more inclusive clothing stores or a place to find craft goods. 🛍