A recent Ottumwa City Council meeting brought new leadership to Market on Main, Ottumwa’s downtown business incubator and public marketplace. The Council turned the reigns over to the Ottumwa Regional Legacy Foundation (OLRF), who will assume leadership immediately.
“We are very excited to be working with the Market,” stated OLRF President & CEO Brad Little. “We know there is a lot of work to be done to get the Market on track…we will begin immediately to establish a sound organizational structure, going back to the original vision of the Market as a business incubator. This new structure will support the Market, steering it in a positive direction.”
Market on Main opened in March 2014, a 12,000 square foot facility located on the northwest corner of Main and Jefferson in downtown Ottumwa. The original vision for the Market was to create easy access to diverse foods, while providing an environment for small businesses to thrive. The project was partially funded through the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA). “Because we secured funding through IEDA, it’s vital that we get the Market on track to achieve the goals laid out in the original grant,” commented Ottumwa Mayor Tom Lazio. “We recognize that the Market has not fulfilled many of its goals…it is our hope that this change in leadership will push the Market in the right direction. It truly could be a great catalyst to the redevelopment of our downtown.”
The Market’s new leadership is wasting no time in getting to work. The Market plans to move quickly over the next 90 days to revamp its leasing procedures; making the Market an attractive location for start-up businesses. A search will begin immediately for quality tenants who are passionate about starting a business and who are dedicated to the success of the Market, and the growth of Downtown Ottumwa. Additionally, Market staff is working to establish a consistent marketing message and determine the best events to draw visitors to the Market.
Those interested in starting a business at Market on Main should contact Market staff at (641) 682-0261 or info@marketonmain.com.
