Small businesses are some of the best parts of a city. They bring communities together, create unique experiences, and help neighborhoods thrive. If you love supporting local businesses and want to see more in San Francisco, you’re in luck. This October, small businesses will be popping up in formerly empty spaces in downtown San Francisco.
The new program called Vacant to Vibrant, includes 17 businesses that will be popping up in formerly vacant spots in downtown San Francisco. The project is led by the nonprofit SF New Deal, Mayor London N. Breed, and the San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development as part of the mayor’s Roadmap to Recovery plan.
Some pop-up shops will be soft opening beginning October 2, but official opening festivities for the program start on October 5. The activations will be held by several of the pop-up businesses to celebrate opening their doors. Events include a bakery opening, a flea market, an art show,and more. On Thursday, make sure to catch a happy hour hosted by Radio station KALW and art nonprofit Creativity Explored in a new gallery space. Following the happy hour, a town hall will be hosted to discuss SF’s downtown. Plus, Devil’s Teeth Baking Company will host a pastry-themed drag show on Friday, October 6.
SF New Deal
The program is led by SF New Deal, a nonprofit organization focused on supporting neighborhoods by making it easier for small businesses to thrive and increasing neighborhood vibrancy.
The nonprofit states that it aims to “address symptoms and root causes of inequity by building pathways which connect local business owners, workers, community leaders, and neighbors in need for the benefit of the entire city,” according to its website. The nonprofit has disbursed over 36 million dollars to hundreds of businesses across the city since its inception.