The Downtown Sacramento Foundation (DSF) will launch the award winning 2015 Calling All Dreamers competition and will begin accepting applications from aspiring entrepreneurs starting February 10.

Since 2013, the annual business plan competition has been successful in incubating eight local start-ups and leasing 5,200 sf in ground floor retail space within the urban core.

“If you have ever dreamed of owning a business, this is your chance to make it a reality,” said Valerie Mamone-Werder, Downtown Sacramento Partnership Senior Manager of Business Development. “Through this competition, we are able to open the doors to a wealth of resources for small businesses from legal advice and business coaching to marketing strategy and accounting services.”

Last year’s grand prize-winner Ana Apple is expected to open its first retail boutique this spring in Old Sacramento. The popular brand is known for its quirky, eco-friendly line of apparel for infants, youth and adults.

“This competition is the essence of economic development,” said Youseffi. “Calling All Dreamers is in a very focused and direct way enhancing the retail and business environment in Downtown Sacramento and encouraging an increasing number of entrepreneurs to choose downtown as the home for their businesses.”

The two winning businesses from 2013 – Andy’s Candy Apothecary and The Dailey Method, opened their doors in downtown in less than one year, creating 3 new full-time jobs and 11 part-time positions. The Calling All Dreamers winners now occupy a lively block at 800 J Street.

For more information about Calling All Dreamers or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Valerie Mamone-Werder at valerie@downtownsac.org.

Click here to learn more or to enter the competition.

from Downtown Sacramento Partnership http://ift.tt/1utLjrq