Chicago Ridge Mall Brings Back Battle of the Pop-Up Challenge

CHICAGO RIDGE, IL — Have you always wanted to be your own boss? Leave the corporate grind? Chicago Ridge Mall is encouraging entrepreneurs to enter their innovative ideas to Battle of the Pop-Up Challenge. One lucky entrepreneur will get a shot to test that great idea -- rent free.

“We are thrilled to support established and budding entrepreneurs who have great ideas,” said Sandy Maldonado-Martinez, Chicago Ridge Mall’s marketing director. “This is the third time we’re offering the Battle of the Pop-Up. We’ve had amazing ideas every time, including De Mi Tierra Natural Bath and Body, which was a winning concept from Evelia Aguirre-Torres. We can’t wait to see what people submit this time.”

The Battle of the Pop-Up Challenge is designed to support local businesses, startups and entrepreneurs. The winner receives four months rent-free, use of existing mall or store fixtures and free utilities. The winner also receives a $500 merchandising package that includes interior signage, table-printed displays and graphic design services.

A pop-up shop is a short-term, temporary retail space designed to make a lasting impression on potential customers. The concept allows entrepreneurs to fine tune their products or services in a unique and engaging space communicating their brand’s promise.

To enter, participants must be prepared to obtain a business license by Monday, July 1, 2019 and operate their business during mall hours from Monday, July 1, 2019 through Thursday, Oct. 31, 2019.

Entries will be judged on business strategy, concept creativity, and likelihood of profitability, among other criteria. The contest is currently open and the deadline for entries is Friday, April 19, 2019. There is no cost to enter. Applicants may enter one of three ways:

1. Chicago Ridge Mall’s website.
2. Drop off their entry at the mall’s management office or
3. Email this completed PDF to TheChallenge@StarwoodRetail.com
Winners will be contacted via email or phone on Monday, May 6. Chicago Ridge Mall is located at 95th Street and Ridgeland Avenue in Chicago Ridge (444 Chicago Ridge Mall). For more information, visit ShoppingChicagoRidgeMall.com or for more mall happenings follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.