Business Incubator

Mixed use space at free or reduced rent at 729 Commercial Street with free Fiber Internet

Cash is always short at the beginning of a entrepreneurial venture. When a lot of capital is going out the door without inflows to refill coffers, businesses can fold pretty quickly. Some business types take a while to generate a positive cash flow, and without a professional space they can operate from at an affordable rent rate, ventures can fail before they really get started.  Emporia Main Street’s incubator space offers the first six months rent free, the second six months are $400 in rent per month, and the third (final) six months are $800 per month.  Tenants are responsible for their own utilities, and a portion of the property taxes for the rented area.  ValuNet Fiber will donate high speed internet and phone access for tenants (renters will receive a monthly bill showing the value of the donation).  The maximum incubation duration is eighteen (18) months.  The lease can be broken early without penalty.  The 729 Commercial Street address is on a high traffic corner, with both corner and ADA central access points to maximize foot traffic and visibility. The space is approximatley 2,200 square feet.

Access to support for business development

Incubated businesses are required to report progress to Emporia Main Street to better prepare for a permanent placement.  Local Emporia Main Street member businesses have offered services at free or reduced costs to help start businesses on a solid foundation.

Entrepreneurial specific education that is outcome based

Through Emporia Main Street’s affiliation with groups like Network Kansas, the Small Business Development Center, Kansas Works, and local educational institutions, Emporia Main Street can assist incubated businesses with targeted training to enhance business viability.

Capital resources for startup growth

Emporia Main Street works with a variety of alternative funding sources to help entrepreneurs start and expand their business concepts.  Throughout the incubation process, Emporia Main Street will assist the incubated business in identifying financial assistance that results in growth and permanent placement.