Local retail space promotes minority entrepreneurship and community revitalization

By Shannon Gerlach

November 26, 2024

The Shoppes at 85 Clinton, a new retail space in Binghamton’s First Ward, officially opened Monday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The boutique features 12 local artisans and entrepreneurs, marking a step forward in supporting minority-owned businesses and revitalizing the neighborhood.

Located in a newly renovated building owned by local entrepreneur Carolee Constable, The Shoppes is the culmination of years of vision and effort. Constable purchased the property in 2018 and partnered with the Koffman Southern Tier Incubator to transform it into a welcoming retail space for artisans and small businesses.

“It has been a long time coming,” Constable said. “We put in a lot of work, and I am thrilled to present this project back to the community. I’m so grateful for the grant that made this possible.”

The boutique showcases 12 artisans and entrepreneurs, all graduates of the Koffman Southern Tier Incubator and New Energy New York’s 12-week Boutique Accelerator Program. This initiative, which emphasizes equality and economic empowerment, equips participants with business skills such as market validation, strategic pricing and revenue diversification, paving the way for their long-term success.

“This boutique represents the heart of what we do at the Koffman: empowering entrepreneurs and fostering equity in our local economy,” said Ebony Hattoh, associate director of equity and justice at the Koffman Southern Tier Incubator and program director of the Boutique Accelerator. “It’s incredible to see these talented individuals bring their visions to life. I’m thrilled that we could provide them with an accessible, intimidation-free space. Commercial leasing can often be confusing and predatory, and we’re proud to help these vendors move past some of those fears.”

New York State Senator Lea Webb attended the event and praised the entrepreneurs and vendors involved in the project.

“Having the shops here, more importantly, all of the vendors who are here, all the entrepreneurs that are literally taking their time and their treasure and staying here and investing in the community. This was a no-brainer for me to be here today,” Webb said.

A collaborative effort supporting local growth

The Shoppes at 85 Clinton was developed through a collaboration between local organizations, with funding support from the Community Foundation for South Central New York. Attendees at the event had the opportunity to explore the boutique, meet the entrepreneurs behind the products and experience firsthand the creativity and craftsmanship of the inaugural tenants. The offerings range from handmade crafts and bespoke fashion to unique home goods, reflecting the diverse talents of the boutique’s vendors.

Sarah Glose, director of economic development for the City of Binghamton, emphasized the project’s significance for the area.

“The City of Binghamton is proud to welcome The Shoppes at 85 Clinton Street to Binghamton’s First Ward,” Glose said. “With crucial support from New Energy New York and the Koffman Southern Tier Incubator, this new space provides a launchpad for new entrepreneurs, developing the next generation of business owners in our community. With the addition of The Shoppes, Clinton Street is one step closer to becoming the Southern Tier’s next great downtown.”

Public opening set for Black Friday

The Shoppes at 85 Clinton will open to the public for shopping on Friday, Nov. 29 — Black Friday. Residents and visitors are encouraged to explore the space and support local businesses.

For the community, The Shoppes represents an opportunity to celebrate local talent and foster economic growth in Binghamton’s First Ward.