The Greater Des Moines Partnership announced the Spark DSM Business Incubator program has opened applications. “We look forward to the return of the Spark DSM Business Incubator program that connects new vendors to attendees of major events and intentionally welcomes small business owners with diverse backgrounds and product offerings that may be interested in becoming full-time vendors in the future,” Amelia Klatt, the Partnership’s director of events, said in a prepared statement. Selected vendors will get multiple dates at the Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market and access to year-round classes and supplemental education. The program was started in 2022 to serve the Downtown Farmers’ Market and has expanded to include other events, including the World Food & Music Festival and Out to Lunch. Those interested in participating in any of these events can apply to be considered. Applications are open year-round.
Applicants must be new to the event and meet one of the following requirements: been in business for two to four years, have between $40,000 to $90,000 in demonstrated annual sales or have participated in programming at the Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families. To apply, click here.