Our vision is to transform Downtown into a thriving, unique urban village with independent boutiques, cafes, and retail experiences that cannot be found in malls. This includes music venues, outdoor and diverse ethnic options. A primary component of this plan is job creation and wealth-building within the minority communities.
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Over the past two years, the Downtown Neighbors Alliance (DNA) has played a crucial role in revitalizing Downtown Pittsburgh’s retail landscape. In 2023 and 2024 alone, DNA assisted in opening 39 retail establishments, and our efforts continue into 2025.
Through persistent outreach: making phone calls, recruiting new businesses, and collaborating with commercial realtors, we have been able to drive meaningful change. The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership has recognized our impact and has now agreed to commit $50,000 per year for a minimum of five years to support our retail recruitment efforts, with the potential for renewal.
Why come to Downtown?
Great Location
Downtown Pittsburgh is easy to get to. It’s close to major highways, buses, and trains, and it’s very walkable which is perfect for customers and employees.
Business-Friendly Community
You’ll be surrounded by a mix of startups, big companies, nonprofits, and more. It’s a great place to meet people, share ideas, and grow your business.
Lively Atmosphere
There’s always something happening downtown—great food, music, theaters, and beautiful parks. It’s a fun and exciting place to work.
Boost Your Image
Having a downtown address can help your business look more professional and attract more attention.
Incentives & Support for New Businesses
Invest PGH and Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership
PDP - Downtown Rent Abatement Program (DRAP)
The Rent Abatement Program is being offered through the PDP and is meant to ease the financial transition to a new storefront. After applicants successfully complete the process, they can receive up to $2,000 in monthly rent for a period of 12 months on a multi-year lease.
Invest PGH - Startup & Mini Advancement Loan (SMAL)
Financing for startups, pre-businesses, and small businesses that need capital to launch or grow a business. This program provides loans of up to $30,000 for working capital, equipment, inventory, and leasehold improvements.
Invest PGH - Accelerating Business Expansion Loan (ABEL)
Flexible underwriting standards for small-to medium-sized commercial businesses for real estate purchase, pre-development, development or construction; furniture, fixtures, equipment, inventory, machinery; and working capital.
Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA)
Small Contractor Line of Credit Program
This grant is for construction, architectural, and engineering companies and will finance up to 90% of submitted and approved invoices of $25,000-$100,000 on an annual basis. Once approved, the URA will disburse 25% of the total line of credit at closing.
Retail Pop-Up Process Steps
Establishing a business needs a leasing timeframe
We begin by learning more about your goals. This includes understanding your ideal leasing duration, the purpose of your pop-up (brand awareness, product launch, seasonal sales), and any unique operational needs. This helps us align our recommendations with your objectives.
Scheduling a Planning Meeting
We schedule a meeting to discuss specifics: square footage, location (street level or upper level preferences), target audience or demographics, and what venues are available based on your criteria
Connecting with landlords of those venues to make it happen
Once we identify the right venues, we’ll liaise directly with property owners or management to explore terms, availability, and potential next steps. We’ll help you navigate pricing, scheduling, and any logistical details needed to secure the space.
