A maker marketplace opening in downtown Akron
A theatre marquee reads: Choose Akron, coming soon. Its letters change to the makers Choose Akron is booking, and it puts your business name up when you type it below.
Candace Love Applications are open. Opening day to be announced.
A curated marketplace where Akron shoppers meet the makers. Rent your retail space, sell directly to customers, and keep 100% of your sales.
A physical retail presence without the full cost of a traditional store.
Local shoppers meet the faces behind the brands.
What you sell is yours.
Nothing comes off the top, and you don’t wait to get paid.
When Candace Love introduced herself to Akron, she did it under a marquee: Choose Akron, coming soon. Now it needs names. Founding Makers go up first.
“Thank you for considering becoming one of our Founding Makers. I’d be honored to build this with you.”
Candace Love
Local makers, artists, creators, product-based businesses, specialty retailers, and entrepreneurs interested in reaching customers through a shared marketplace may apply. Final eligibility requirements will be confirmed by the Choose Akron team.
Participation options and pricing will be shared with selected applicants once the final marketplace structure is confirmed.
The marketplace may include both emerging and established businesses. Applicants should be prepared to provide consistent, retail-ready products and conduct their business professionally.
Seller responsibilities, staffing expectations, inventory procedures, and participation requirements will be explained before an applicant commits.
Food and beverage businesses may apply. Acceptance may depend on product type, packaging, shelf stability, required licenses, health regulations, and marketplace capabilities.
No. Applications will be reviewed to ensure the marketplace offers a balanced, high-quality, and cohesive shopping experience.
The opening date and onboarding schedule will be announced once final operational details are confirmed.
The marketplace is intended to strengthen Akron and its surrounding entrepreneurial community.
