Investing in Dreams: Transforming Dutchtown Together

Dutchtown is a neighborhood bursting with potential—a place where hardworking entrepreneurs, creative artists, and passionate neighbors are shaping a brighter future. Having lived and worked in Dutchtown for nearly two decades, I’ve dedicated myself to supporting its growth and resilience. As a co-founder of the Downtown Dutchtown Business Association in 2005—now known as Dutchtown Main Streets—I’ve seen firsthand the potential of this community. I’m setting a personal goal of $10,000 to support three initiatives that are both deeply rooted in community development and forward-thinking in their innovative approach to creating opportunity and lasting impact.

1. Dutchtown Farmer’s Market & Community Event Space

At 3207 Meramec Street, we envision transforming the current parking lot into the Dutchtown Farmer’s Market—a vibrant outdoor space where fresh produce, local foods, and handmade goods connect neighbors with the entrepreneurs behind them. Beyond the market, this space will host concerts, group exercises, dance classes, and more. With your support, we can provide the essential infrastructure to create a welcoming and thriving community gathering place while providing aspiring microentrepreneurs with a platform to test and grow their ideas.

2. Microbusiness Incubator (MBi)

Over the past four years, programs like Urban Eats Food Incubator and The Wink: Retail Incubator have laid the foundation for more than dozens of women-, immigrant-, and minority-owned businesses to launch and grow. The Microbusiness Incubator (MBi) builds on this success, offering affordable shared kitchens, storefronts, coworking spaces, hands-on workshops, and mentorship to support entrepreneurs with big dreams. Every dollar raised helps us expand this impactful program, empowering place-based startups to flourish in a supportive community.

3. Dutchtown Community Venture Capital Fund (CVCF)

Early-stage funding can make or break a business. The Dutchtown CVCF provides critical financial support to place-based startups, enabling them to scale and create lasting economic impact. By investing in this fund, you’re directly helping to build a sustainable ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship in Dutchtown.

Why Your Support Matters
Your support doesn’t just fund programs—it invests in dreams. Together, we can create opportunities for microentrepreneurs, foster diversity, and build a stronger, more inclusive Dutchtown.

Join the Movement
Your donation fuels a future where fresh ideas thrive, neighbors connect, and Dutchtown evolves into the Dutchtown Innovation Hub, a thriving center of innovation and opportunity. Together, we can build a neighborhood that supports and uplifts everyone who calls it home.

Thank you for believing in this mission—let’s make Dutchtown a place where dreams grow.