In Baltimore Peninsula, we believe small businesses are the heartbeat of a thriving neighborhood. The Launchpad is our new seasonal outdoor retail incubator program, designed to give emerging brands the space, visibility, and support to grow.
Located in Rye Street Park, The Launchpad offers two-week residencies in a dedicated outdoor kiosk, placing local artisans and entrepreneurs at the center of the action. Surrounded by destination dining, waterfront events, and a growing community of residents and office tenants, vendors will benefit from steady foot traffic and high-impact exposure throughout the season.
The Launchpad celebrates the innovation and grit that define Baltimore’s maker community. Together, we’re cultivating a neighborhood where entrepreneurs can take bold steps forward and fresh ideas have room to flourish.
Apply Now!
When does the Launchpad season run?
The Launchpad season runs from early May through early October. Each vendor selected will be scheduled for a two-week residency during that timeframe.
What are the residency requirements?
Selected vendors must be available to staff their kiosk on weekends during both weeks of their residency. You will be asked to commit to either Friday & Saturday or Saturday & Sunday each weekend to ensure consistent coverage and engagement with visitors Weekday vending is also available and encouraged.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applications are open to all local artisans and entrepreneurs. While we prioritize Baltimore City residents in the selection process, residency in Baltimore City is not a requirement. Likewise, we give priority consideration to businesses owned by women and individuals from underrepresented communities, though all eligible applicants are welcome to apply. The Launchpad is designed to support a diverse mix of makers and merchants.
Do I need to be a certain type of business?
No specific business category is required — makers of handcrafted goods, specialty foods, apparel, art, design products, and other creative retail concepts are all encouraged to apply. Your product should be appropriate for outdoor vending in a public park setting.
Please note that the kiosks are not equipped with electricity or refrigeration.
How are vendors selected?
Vendors are selected based on the strength of their application, alignment with the goals of The Launchpad, and available dates. We aim to curate a vibrant, diverse mix of participants each season.
When do applications for The Launchpad close?
Applications remain open on a rolling basis, and we will begin reaching out to applicants starting March 16th. The two-week residencies will be assigned first come, first served, so we encourage interested vendors to apply early to secure their preferred dates.
Where will the kiosk be located?
The Launchpad kiosk is typically anchored in Rye Street Park, adjacent to Sagamore Spirit Distillery and Rye Street Tavern, but may be relocated within the neighborhood to optimize visibility and traffic during key events and weekends.
What support do vendors receive?
Participating entrepreneurs will gain access to flexible, short-term retail space with lower barriers to entry, along with hands-on technical support in marketing, branding, operations and business development.
Who can I contact with questions?
For questions about the application process or The Launchpad program, please email info@baltimorepeninsula.org.
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