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Downtown Rochester MN
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Downtown Next Door - Retail Popups

Step Into Your Storefront

Are you an emerging entrepreneur ready to bring your business Downtown?! Downtown Next Door is a pilot initiative from the Rochester Downtown Alliance and Destination Medical Center that connects property owners with local makers, startups, and small businesses who are ready to test their concept in a brick-and-mortar space.

This program transforms vacant storefronts into vibrant destinations - bringing new products, experiences, and energy to the heart of Rochester. Selected businesses will gain visibility, community connections, and the opportunity to grow into long-term tenants and anchors in downtown.

Click here to apply!

Why Participate?

For Entrepreneurs:

  • Low-Risk Entry: Short-term leases with minimal upfront investment.
  • Prime Exposure: Visibility in a central, high-traffic downtown location.
  • Customer Growth: Introduce your brand to new audiences and markets.
  • Path to Permanency: Prove your concept before committing long term.
  • Community Connection: Join the cultural and civic life of downtown.
  • Marketing Boost: Shared promotion and visibility you can’t achieve alone.

For Landlords:

  • Activate Vacant Spaces: Quickly fill empty storefronts with fresh energy.
  • Increase Foot Traffic: More activity benefits neighboring tenants.
  • Showcase Space Potential: Demonstrate how your property can work.
  • Reduce Carrying Costs: Even short-term leases offset expenses.
  • Strengthen Ties: Partner in Rochester’s growth and vitality.
  • Pipeline to Long-Term Leases: Tenants may transition permanently.

Program Details

  • Timeline: Mid-September 2025 – Early January 2026
  • Lease Terms: Rent set at 8% of sales (no additional lease or utilities).
  • Support: Fixed stipend for capital assets to help with setup.
  • Hours: Businesses must be open at minimum Thursday–Saturday, 11 AM–7 PM.
  • Locations: Multiple South Broadway storefronts, with more to come.

Get Involved

Entrepreneurs, property owners, and community members are all part of Rochester’s Downtown story. If you’re ready to grow Downtown, Downtown Next Door is your opportunity.

Contact:

LeeAnn Krueger, Krueger Real Estate Advisors

leeann@kruegerrea.com | 612-558-2018

Click here to apply!