Local Initiatives Support Corporation Milwaukee
Press Release

Six new businesses open through “Pop-Up MKE” retail shops

Entrepreneurs showcase a variety of products and services from custom made jewelry to Cream City themed apparel

(Milwaukee, July 7, 2018) Pop-Up MKE, a public and private partnership focused on economic development and entrepreneurship, is proud to announce the next round of businesses selected to occupy shops in three vital commercial corridors near downtown Milwaukee. Entrepreneurs selected reflect the local community, and offer unique products and services.

Pop-Up MKE is coordinated by Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) in partnership with the Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation (WWBIC), the City of Milwaukee, and MKE United. Pop-Up Mke is part of a larger initiative, funded by Chase, aimed at building capacity and supporting urban entrepreneurs. This is the second round of businesses selected for shops which opened in early June. The Pop-Up shops will host a total of 18 businesses during this pilot season.

“Businesses have found great success through the Pop-Up model. They are building a customer base, establishing brand loyalty, and taking steps towards long-term retail space based on their participation in Pop-Up MKE”, said Beth Haskovec, program officer and coordinator of Pop-Up MKE with LISC Milwaukee.

All three Pop-Up Mke locations have grand opening events planned this week, and an official “kick-off” with business owners and public officials will take place on Thursday, July 12, 3pm, at 1008 S. Cesar E. Chavez, Drive.

The following businesses will be featured in round two of Pop-Up Mke, occupying their shops for four weeks:

Cesar Chavez BID Businesses 1008 S Cesar E Chavez Dr.

A Mother’s Love offers lovingly used children’s and maternity apparel. Business owner Antionette Steadman will be hosting a Grand Opening on July 12th from 4-7pm featuring giveaways and refreshments.

Aloekui Handmade Soap creates homemade soaps, lotions, and aromatherapy candles. Business owner Rita Estremera is hosting a Grant Opening on July 11th from 2-5pm.

Historic King Drive BID Businesses 339 W. North Ave.

Papyrus & Charms offers a fresh collection of earrings, bracelets, crystal crowns, and other unique charms. Business owner Lilo Allen has created a line she will be selling exclusively at her Grand Opening celebration on Sunday, July 15th from 1-7pm.

Cream City Phresh is an apparel brand that promotes the Cream City. Business owner Logan Scaggs will be hosting a grand opening party featuring special sales, raffles, and refreshments on Sunday, July 15th from 1-7pm.

Marketplace BID Businesses 1617 W. North Ave. 

Nandi Collections specializes in leather personal accessories for men/women and leather home décor. Business owner Pamela Graham is hosting a Grand Opening celebration on July 14th from 8am – 6pm.

Paradise Home features handcrafted home goods, clothing, and accessories. Business owner Rosy Ricks is hosting a Grand Opening celebration on July 14th from 8am – 6pm.

More information on launch events, business hours and products can be found on Facebook @PopUpMke.

Pop-Up MKE collaborates with the City of Milwaukee’s White Box Grant program to improve storefronts along Historic King Drive, Cesar Chavez Drive, and the North Avenue and Fond du Lac Business Improvement Districts for the business owners that will be selected for this short-term, retail opportunity with long-term rewards.

A Ribbon-Cutting is scheduled for Thursday, July 12th at 3pm at 1008 S. Cesar Chavez Drive with public officials, partners, and investors.

About LISC: Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) is the recognized leader in neighborhood development. LISC provides programs, tools and investments that help communities thrive. Since 1980, LISC national has marshaled $13.7 billion from investors, lenders and donors to foster the revitalization of more than 300 urban neighborhoods and rural communities. Since 1995, LISC Milwaukee has invested $140 million in the central city by mobilizing resources for neighborhood revitalization and investing these funds through grants, loans and technical assistance to neighborhood-based community development efforts. Visit:  www.lisc.org or www.lisc.org/milwaukee.

About JPMorgan Chase:JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM) is a leading global financial services firm with assets of $2.6 trillion and operations worldwide. The Firm is a leader in investment banking, financial services for consumers and small businesses, commercial banking, financial transaction processing, and asset management. A component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, JPMorgan Chase & Co. serves millions of customers in the United States and many of the world’s most prominent corporate, institutional and government clients under its J.P. Morgan and Chase brands. Information about JPMorgan Chase & Co. is available at www.jpmorganchase.com.

About WWBIC: Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corp. (WWBIC) is a leading, innovative economic development corporation “Putting Dreams to Work.” WWBIC’s primary focus is on women, people of color and low income individuals, providing direct lending and access to fair and responsible capital, quality business education, one-on-one technical business assistance and education to increase financial capability. In 2017 WWBIC celebrates 30 Years of Impact and has directly lent over $60 million in micro and small business loans with a current loan portfolio of $17 million and 500 active borrowers. Visit: www.wwbic.com

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.

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