Business Incubator

The Eric Outlaw Business Center (EOBC), presented by Park Central Development, is a small business incubator and resource center supporting retail startups and existing businesses within the Park Central footprint. EOBC provides entrepreneurs with access to technical assistance, market exposure, strategic partnerships, and opportunities to showcase their products in a physical retail environment.

Through its 14-month business incubator program, early-stage entrepreneurs receive coaching, business development support, and guidance to help grow their companies, secure capital, and expand into sustainable businesses.

EOBC also supports established neighborhood businesses through its Stay-In-Place Program, which helps existing businesses remain stable and competitive. The program provides technical assistance, marketing support, and access to professional resources to strengthen operations and support long-term success.

Together, these programs help entrepreneurs and neighborhood businesses grow while strengthening the local economy within Park Central’s communities.

What you’ll get

  • ✺

    Expert Education & Training

    Participate in tailored workshops and seminars that cover everything from business fundamentals to advanced growth strategies, helping you build a solid foundation for success.

  • ✺

    Personalized Coaching & Mentorship

    Receive one-on-one support from seasoned business professionals who will guide you through challenges, provide feedback, and help you develop a strategic roadmap for your business.

  • ✺

    Access to Capital & Funding Resources

    Gain insight into funding opportunities, including access to investors and grants, and learn how to position your business to secure the capital needed for expansion.

  • ✺

    Market Exposure & Retail Space

    Showcase your products in a physical retail environment, providing direct access to potential customers, investors, and partners, while gaining valuable market insights.

  • ✺

    Networking Opportunities

    Build relationships with other entrepreneurs, industry experts, and potential partners through events, mentorship, and peer-to-peer learning, creating a collaborative community to support your growth.

Meet the Entrepreneurs in Residents

DEMIblue Vegan Nails- Michelle Robinson

DEMIblue Vegan Nails is a cruelty-free, eco-friendly nail care brand that offers a wide range of vibrant, high-quality nail polishes made with vegan and non-toxic ingredients

Learn more

J.R Candle Company- Joi Riley

J.R Candle Company offers a collection of premium, handcrafted candles that infuse your space with warmth, ambiance, and joy, all while prioritizing sustainability.

Learn more

Truly Rare Customs- Gabriel Williams

Truly Rare Customs specializes in crafting one-of-a-kind, custom-designed apparel and accessories that celebrate individuality and style, making every piece a bold statement of personal expression.

Learn more

✺ Frequently Asked Questions ✺

  • Must Be:

    • A start-up: From 0-5 years

    • Be privately held and wholly owned

    • Less than $200k in annual revenue

    • Previous retail activity (pop-up or e-commerce transactions, trunk shows, job experience)

  • Submit Application

    Pitch Competition Announcement

    Attend Pitch Preparation Sessions

    Pitch Competition

    Selection Day

  • Each finalist will be granted five minutes to pitch, followed by three minutes of Q&A with the Selection & Development Committee.

  • Applicants invited to participate will be contacted by staff.

    There will be an in-person orientation.

    Please refrain from contacting staff regarding the status of your application. We receive a high volume of submissions!

  • The EOBC is located at 4256 Manchester Ave in the Grove.

    The Grove is a vibrant, diverse, and popular neighborhood. A recently designated art district but built on the ideals of acceptance, the neighborhood has grown into an eclectic mix of businesses, residents and guests. “The Grove” name was coined to support the re-brand effort so the area could begin anew. This thriving, centrally-located district stretches nearly a mile along Manchester Avenue between Kingshighway and Vandeventer. It hosts a diverse range of over 50 businesses offering great places to eat and drink, a multitude of dance floors, spots to shop and grab coffee, a brewery, tattoo parlors and several organizations devoted to improving the vitality of the area. You can enjoy a full day of activities from a haircut and bar games in the afternoon, dinner followed by drinks, a show or live music, dancing at a nightclub and then even stay over at a friend’s - all within walking distance. What's more fitting than a thriving rejuvenated economic center to house a retail incubator.

  • There are 3 businesses located in the Retail Incubator.

  • Unfortunately, we are not accepting applications at this time.