Seattle is attempting to revitalize its struggling downtown core by offering abandoned retail spaces rent-free for six months. The initiative, known as the "Seattle Restored" program, also provides participating entrepreneurs with a $2,500 stipend.
The program prioritizes businesses owned by women and Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC), and those that serve these communities. Applications will be reviewed by a community advisory panel comprising individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Mayor Katie Wilson highlighted the Seattle Restored initiative in her February State of the City address, stating that it "continues to grow, partnering with property owners to transform vacant commercial spaces into pop-up shops." The program is administered by Seattle's Office of Economic Development.
Downtown Seattle has experienced numerous business closures in recent years. Brands such as Nike, Starbucks, and Vans have closed their downtown locations, and Target cited theft and organized retail crime as reasons for shutting down two of its stores in September 2023. Local restaurants, including Tutta Bella and Navy Strength, have also ceased operations.
The Seattle Restored program is currently seeking to fill spaces in Belltown, the Chinatown International District, and Pioneer Square, in addition to the broader downtown area. Applicants will be evaluated based on social impact, economic growth potential, and their experience managing brick-and-mortar businesses. Businesses must commit to operating at least 32 hours per week during their pop-up tenure.
This initiative follows other city efforts to support small businesses. In October 2022, a program was launched under former Mayor Bruce Harrell to provide grants for vandalism and property damage repairs, with reimbursement limits later increased under Mayor Wilson's administration. Additional grants are available for security measure improvements.
A survey conducted in October found that a majority of respondents believed Seattle's business climate had worsened in the past year, citing public safety, taxes, homelessness, and labor costs as major challenges. Many expressed pessimism about the city's outlook for the next 12 months, with low confidence in effective plans to improve public safety or reduce homeless encampments.