iConnect Hartford

 iConnect re-imagines the retail space and capitalizes on Hartford’s creative and commercial talents. A downtown has its strengths and weaknesses. Hartford has a thriving and growing residential and commercial base and a vibrant arts community but a glut of empty storefronts.

The iConnect project aims to re-purpose those empty, street-level commercial spaces to create artist lofts and laboratories that will enliven downtown Hartford. iConnect’s mixed-use storefront spaces will feature studios and workshops, exhibits, interactive displays and forums for ongoing community conversations around the arts and other local issues as well as retail endeavors.

These storefront spaces will foster connectivity and creative thinking in our community, with artists and arts organizations acting as the “innovation engine” for creative experimentation, dialogue, exchange and performance which will ultimately lead to economic growth. We are currently seeking pre-applicants who are interested in building a creative community, and growing their small business ideas. 

Eligibility 

You are:

• A driven entrepreneur whose goals are in sync with Hartford’s revitalization efforts
• An existing business that is interested in testing Hartford’s growing retail environment
• An individual with a business concept interested in joining a like-minded community 

Timeline