Program Details

Program Timeline

1. Open Call for Proposals

Approximately six months before a storefront becomes available, we release a Request for Proposals (RFP). This document includes all the information you need to submit a thoughtful application, including space details, business criteria, and expectations for participation. Preference is given to businesses that have completed our Findlay Learn programming, as they are best positioned to take full advantage of the residency opportunity.

2. Application & Interview Process

Interested businesses submit a written proposal in response to the RFP. From there, selected applicants are invited to participate in in-person interview rounds with our team to assess fit, readiness, and alignment with the program’s goals. See Application & Program Requirements page for details.

3. Residency Selection & Onboarding

One business is selected for the upcoming residency. The selected entrepreneur will go through a three-month onboarding phase, during which they receive hands-on support to prepare for move-in and launch.

4. 15-Month Residency

Once in the space, the resident receives 15 months of tailored guidance and support from the Findlay Market team. This includes help with operations, marketing, staffing, financial planning, and more.

5. Exit Planning & Long-Term Growth

During the final quarter of the residency, our team will work closely with you to develop a customized plan for your next chapter—whether that’s securing a permanent location, scaling your concept, or evolving your business model.

Program Outcomes

Potential Outcomes Include:

  • Gaining a clear understanding of the demands of operating a full-time food business 

  • Experiencing how well-managed operations and business systems impact your ability to succeed, grow, and scale

  • Understanding the impact of marketing and promotions 

  • Testing your concept, commitment and abilities before committing to long-term lease and substantial financial investments

  • Ability to pivot plans, products and operations in response to real-world experiences

  • Establishing your brand and building a customer base in a thriving business district

  • Understanding how Mission, Vision, and Values impact every aspect of your business

Business Support

Residents receive hands-on guidance and strategic support from the Findlay Market Food Innovation Team through weekly advisory meetings, including:

  • Financial review and cost analysis

  • Menu development and optimization

  • Support in creating and tracking new revenue streams

  • Assistance with building a strong online presence

  • Staffing support and guidance

  • Development of operational systems

  • Connections to industry experts in marketing, build outs, financial management, and leasing

  • Establishing an exit plan tailored to their next best step—whether a permanent brick-and-mortar or a refined business model based on their Findlay Launch experience

Reduced Start Up Costs 

This program lowers barriers to entry by providing: 

  • Fully built-out brick-and-mortar space

  • Short-term lease agreement with no percentage sales requirements

  • Commercial equipment ranging from Type I hood, ovens, refrigeration units, prep tables, and various small wares

  • Grand opening event coordination and promotion

  • Cincinnati Health Department permit

  • No security deposit

Location, Location, Location

Being at the heart of the Findlay Market district gives residents the opportunity to tap into a large, existing customer base uniquely representing the entire region, unlike any other location in the city. By capturing the hearts (and stomachs) of local residents and tourists alike, residents will be able to create brand advocates and customer awareness able to follow them to their permanent home, whenever that may be. Findlay Market features include:

  • 1.5 million+ visitors annually

  • 5th most visited destination in Cincinnati 

  • Vibrant community filled with small business owners, office spaces, and an expanding residential customer base

Public Relations and Exposure

As a resident of the Findlay Launch Program, you are a member of the Findlay Market community. Residents receive the following benefits:

  • A Findlay Market Press Release- upon opening- to all major news outlets in the city 

  • Inclusion on the Findlay Market and Findlay Launch websites 

  • Inclusion on the Findlay Market map of vendors 

  • Invitation to participate in all Findlay market events and promotions

  • Social media posts created and shared throughout the Findlay Market social media channels, which boast over 150K followers

  • Participation in media events and tours 

  • Additional support may be offered through a meeting with our communications and design team and development of a communications plan