Pop-Up Waupun

Pop-Up Waupun is a program run by the City of Waupun's Business Improvement District

The goal of Pop-Up Waupun is to bring together entrepreneurs, makers, and businesses to activate vacant storefronts, enhancing the retail community within Waupun's downtown historic commercial district. Pop-Up Waupun provides the opportunity for businesses to test their fit in the Waupun, WI market without making a long-term commitment. The program welcomes all tenants who are passionate about their business concept and ready to expand their entrepreneurial venture into Waupun’s retail scene.

Applications for the 2021 program are not longer being accepted.

Pop-Up Shop Criteria:

• The selected business will receive a heavily discounted or rent-free storefront in downtown Waupun to try out a business from October 2021 to the end of January 2022.
• Businesses must be ready to open their business October 12, 2021 and be open until January 16, 2022.
• Location will not be finalized until business is selected.
• Commercial kitchen space will not be available in any of the pop-up shop location.
• Ideal applicants are individuals with a current business run out of their home, businesses looking to open a second location, or business concepts with minimal startup inventory.

Pop-Up Rules:

• Retailers must maintain regular store hours.
• Retailers must sign a waiver of liability regarding program participation, including responsibility for any personal or property damage resulting from tenancy.
• Retailers will pay all necessary sales tax on proceeds, obtain any necessary state permits and carry insurance for liability.
• Retailers must proactively market via social media, relationship marketing, etc. and identify the shop as a part of Waupun’s Business Improvement District.
• Retailers are responsible for maintaining building’s interior and exterior.
• Selected retailer agrees to one (1) consultation with a small business expert.

Selection:

• The Selection committee reserves the right to request clarification or additional information from candidates as well as to request that some make presentations.
• Evaluation criteria for selection shall be based on product mix, store concept, marketing approach, operations strategy, availability to install, events, experience, references, willingness to work with the City of Waupun and other retailers, store design, and other issues the selection committee deems appropriate.