The city of Ontario is revitalizing its downtown area by offering business leases for just $1 per month. This initiative is part of the Downtown Ontario Retail Pop-Up Program, which is currently open for applications until the end of the week. Approved business owners will not only benefit from the low-cost lease but also from free utilities and access to a Wi-Fi hotspot. The lease terms will be for up to six months.
Peter Pallesen, an economic development coordinator with the city of Ontario, explained that the city is fortunate to own the buildings in the area and can afford to offer the $1 monthly rent. This reduced cost is meant to lower the barrier of entry for entrepreneurs looking to establish businesses in the downtown area. The program began last year and has already helped two entrepreneurs successfully launch their stores. Now, the city is actively seeking new business owners to fill available spaces in the downtown area.
One of these successful entrepreneurs, Steven Alcarez, co-owner of Street Culture Boutique, expressed his initial disbelief at the low rent offer. However, he was able to open his store with the help of
