Description

Over the past six months, the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce Retail Storefront Accelerator Powered by QUAY Acceleration program has empowered eight exceptional retail founders to take their businesses from vision to reality, equipping them with the tools, mentorship, and strategies needed to open their first brick-and-mortar storefronts in Manhattan.

On this upcoming Demo Day, our founders will pitch their unique retail concepts to a room filled with fellow entrepreneurs, investors, retail experts, media, influential stakeholders, and more.

If you are an entrepreneurs, investors, retail experts, media or influential stakeholder, join this showcase of innovative, sustainable growth strategies for Manhattan retail, meet exceptional founders and gain networking opportunities with key players in the real estate ecosystem, investment, business, and media, fashion and additional innovators. To RSVP please email events@manhattancc.org. 

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Agenda

5:30 Opening Doors & Check In

6:00 Welcoming Remarks

6:10 Founders Pitches

7:00 Networking

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Meet our 2024 Cohort

Sade Mims l EDAS- EDAS, founded in 2015 by designer Sade Mims in NYC, is a contemporary lifestyle brand for eclectic individuals. Rooted in community and storytelling, EDAS specializes in refined accessories that blend thoughtful design with inclusivity, redefining retail with exceptional, budget-conscious products for all.

Imani Schectman l We Are Open Market Inc.- Open Market is a socially responsible marketplace spotlighting BIPOC and POC brands to foster equity and sustainability. Blending retail and technology, we feature beauty, home decor, grocery, apparel, accessories, and wellness. Through curated experiences, we celebrate diversity, build community, and drive economic growth, while creating opportunities to redistribute capital and support emerging brands

Kayy Finn l strawberryzskies LLC- Where art meets mental wellness, strawberryzskies LLC creates a movement that transforms how we approach mental health through creative expression and community building. Through our wearable art, engaging events, and brand partnerships, we’re breaking down stigmas and fostering open dialogue about mental health.

Lya Pouleyy I The Concept Store by Lya Pouleyy- The Concept Store by Lya Pouleyy is a shop where Lya makes art and creations available for purchase. The store aims to host a third-place area where events take place, a community grows and people can connect.

Emma Enriquez I Valluna- Valluna is an immersive art and retail company that bridges culture and commerce through memorable events. Founded by an artist and an international events manager, Valluna uses cutting-edge projection mapping, soundscapes, and installations, offering exclusive merchandise by NYC artists.

Yasmely Lopez I Yasmely's Delights - At Yasmely's Delights, we blend tradition and innovation, offering single-serving cakes, cheesecakes, puddings, and pies. As a NYC street vendor, we cater to busy New Yorkers on the go, with plans to open a flagship Manhattan store.

Calvin Martin I GÜDSPORT- We're a fitness and lifestyle brand that prides itself on team culture, results-driven workouts, and community expansion. We currently offer 4 group training classes per week/16 per month. Our workouts are much deeper than fitness itself - we provide an experience.

Ramona Wilmes I MONA WIE- At MONA WIE, we craft timeless, minimalist pieces that empower women with effortless elegance. Our sustainable designs and high-quality fabrics are a canvas for self-expression while standing the test of time. Choose from our ready-to-wear collection or opt for made-to-measure pieces.