Pop-ups extending leases as program expands to fill downtown San Francisco vacancies

California Construction News staff writer

The second cohort of San Francisco’s ‘Vacant to Vibrant’ program will be announced in a few months, following a successful pilot three-month term.

Launched last April, the program is a partnership with SF New Deal, a local non-profit organization to create opportunities for small businesses, artists and cultural organizations to create pop-ups in vacant storefront spaces.

OEWD and SF New Deal are accepting applications for this year’s cohort to fill more vacant storefronts downtown later this year. The next set of pop-ups will expand the program’s footprint with more locations that will be designed to offer engaging and inviting spaces and experiences.

“Vacant to Vibrant is a shining example of what can be accomplished when we work together with non-profit and community partners to deliver creative solutions to our challenges,” said Mayor London Breed.

Reimagining the downtown area to regain its vibrancy is a core component of the mayor’s strategic plan.

Applications remain open for small businesses, artists, nonprofits and others interested in bringing a pop-up to Downtown through the program, as well as for property owners and managers interested in hosting a pop-up in their space through the program.

Applicants can apply via the program’s website until February 23, 2024 for consideration in the next cohort. Applicants who have previously applied who were not selected in the inaugural cohort will automatically be considered in the coming round.

Visit vibrantSF.org for more information.