Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1525985
W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 17 S E P T E M B E R 2 , 2 0 2 4 F O C U S S TA R T U P S / E N T R E P R E N E U R S H I P e Black Box, he says, "was born out of a need for more accessible, move-in ready space to provide startup businesses with a low barrier of entry to a storefront," he says. Taking a concept from the previous owner, Jed Harris, Edwards says that he and his team have "branded it, and market it as a retail incubator for the neighborhood." Amid high demand, the owner has sought to curate the right mix of tenants. "We are mindful to avoid having businesses who compete with one another directly but have been lucky that the model resonates with entrepreneurs and has attracted a diverse group of small businesses," he says. Current tenants include Pinebury, a retailer of high- performance, American-made merino wool apparel owned by Kyle Rancourt. e carpeted space aims to evoke a 1950s/'60s-era retro look with paneled walls and vintage bicycle helmets and other equipment on display. Divided into sections, including a curtained chang- ing room at the back, the venue feels a lot bigger than its actual size. ough the store can fill up quickly at times, Rancourt says that customers are good about waiting outdoors if needed. "With that being said, it's still a really low risk and affordable space to have a retail space in Portland," the Lewiston native says. He hopes to stay in the neighborhood indefinitely. Two doors down at Moonday Coffee, David Kessel is also in no hurry to leave the Black Box. "ings shift in their own time," he says, "so we're casually keeping our eyes open." R e n e e C o r d e s , M a i n e b i z s e n i o r w r i t e r , c a n b e r e a c h e d a t r c o r d e s @ m a i n e b i z . b i z There are lots of good reasons, but let's start here: • You'll get our best, fairest quote the first time. • We're from Maine, too, so we know the market and your needs as well as you do. • Our Large Group Partner Promise helps you and your employees save money and access quality care. Ready to change how you do health insurance? Request a quote from your valued broker or call our Business Development team at (207) 402-3353. Why go with Community Health Options? A nonprofit health insurance partner made for Maine businesses. LG20240730 P H O T O / J I M N E U G E R Kyle Rancourt sells high- performance clothing and accessories at Pinebury, based in the Black Box on Washington Avenue.