Reduce commercial vacancy.
Strengthen business mix.

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Purpose

The Downtown Economic Vitality & Business Recruitment Program is designed to reduce commercial vacancy, strengthen downtown’s business mix, and build on downtown restaurants as economic anchors by actively recruiting, matching, and supporting businesses that are a strong fit for Downtown Chico.

 

Why This Program

Vacant storefronts weaken downtown’s image and limit its economic potential. This program connects demand, space, and support to convert foot traffic into new business activity.

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Program Approach

PBID will lead a coordinated recruitment effort focused on fit, readiness, and ease:
1)    Downtown Space Inventory
Maintain an active inventory of vacant downtown spaces using the Downtown Story Map, including size, location, visibility, and likely use types.
2)    Target Business Recruitment
Identify and recruit retail, service, experience-based, and creative businesses that complement downtown restaurants and activate daytime, evening, and weekend activity.
3)    Student & Community Input
Engage Chico State students and the community to identify desired business types and regional brands that would strengthen downtown.
4)    Business–Space Matchmaking
Actively match recruited businesses with appropriate spaces and facilitate introductions with property owners.
5)    Startup & Permitting Navigation
Help recruited businesses understand tenant improvement needs, permitting steps, and timelines, reducing uncertainty and startup friction.
6)    Active Outreach & Marketing
Package priority spaces and conduct direct outreach to local and regional businesses, promoting downtown as a ready-made ecosystem anchored by food, events, and activity.

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City Partnership

We will ask the City of Chico to partner with PBID by coordinating early guidance on use and permitting, supporting clarity and efficiency for recruited businesses, and aligning the program with broader economic vitality goals. If possible, create a “per-approved path” for certain type of businesses? Or a unique program that facilitates fast tracking and positive experience.

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Program Outcomes

• Reduced downtown vacancy

• Stronger, more intentional business mix

• Increased utilization of downtown foot traffic

• Improved perception of downtown activity and momentum

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