Starter Pens

CO.SHOP

CO.SHOP offers subsidized shared retail space located at Square One Goods, owned by CO.STARTERS graduate Kate Hardy, at Founders Station. Your products remain at Square One Goods as a semi-permanent product. CO.SHOP is set up as a consignment model. You’ll be paid on a monthly basis, receiving 70% of your sale with 15% going to Square One Goods and 15% going to Create Birmingham.

PROCESS

  • Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis over the course of the two-year pilot program, but space is limited
  • Complete the application form below after carefully reviewing the guidelines.
  • A follow-up meeting will be scheduled by staff to discuss your application and evaluate your needs. Additional materials may be requested.

ELIGIBILITY

CO.SHOP is open to CO.STARTERS graduates with a product (or products) in the start-up or business phase who missed no more than two classes during their CO.STARTERS course and participated in the Celebration Night presentation.

PARTICIPANT REQUIREMENTS

Create Birmingham will underwrite rent and marketing expenses for CO.SHOP participants for a minimum of six months, with the possibility of extension based on space availability.

CO.SHOP participants must cover packaging costs. CO.SHOP participants must also agree to participate in a cooperative marketing campaign, three and six-month check-ins, and selected educational and networking opportunities for CO.STARTERS graduates.

Support for CO.SHOP and CO.WORK is provided by a grant from the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham.