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                    Shopfront Activation Program

                    Exterior of clothing store on scity street
                    We transformed empty shopfronts into creative spaces, bespoke displays and pop-up shops as part of the Shopfront Activation Program, delivered from the City of Melbourne and Victorian Government.

                    ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Since its inception in August 2021, the program provided 67 artists, budding entrepreneurs, retailers and artisan makers the opportunity to occupy space to test their business ideas and help attract Melburnians back into the city.

                    Activations ranged from five weeks to more than 12 months with some still in opera​tion since the program closed in March 2023. See below for the participants currently operating and completing leases under the program.

                    Participant feedback:

                    “This program was vital to reigniting the spirit of the city, and was deeply appreciated by the participants, local residents and visitors who came to visit our Store. Some visitors flew in specially to see this Exhibit. Many remarked how vibrant Melbourne had become with so much creativity”. – Anna Reeves, Metaverse Store​

                    For enquiries about how and where ​​to start your business in the City of Melbourne, get in touch with our Business Concierge team on 9658 9658 to book an appointment.

                    Subscribe to Business in Melbourne Newsletter to be kept up to date with new initiatives or opportunities.

                    Current activations

                    Get in touch

                    If you have, or are interested in utilising or occupying a vacant or underused space and helping to bring the buzz back to Melbourne, get in touch with one of our activations agencies.

                    For opportunities in Docklands:

                    For opportunities in Errol Street, Kensington, North Melbourne and Lygon Street, Carlton (City of Melbourne municipality):

                    For opportunities in Melbourne City – CBD

                    If you would like to discuss the program with the City of Melbourne’s Shopfront Activation team, get in touch with us through our Business Concierge on 9658 9658 or online.

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