The goal of this initiative is to provide an accessible entry point for early-stage culinary entrepreneurs into Downtown Frederick\u2019s competitive commercial real estate market while also expanding and diversifying business ownership and offerings in the community. By providing shared space and lower startup costs compared to traditional standalone storefronts, the food hall model makes entrepreneurship more accessible to a wider range of small businesses. The food hall will strengthen downtown\u2019s overall dining scene, driving foot traffic and supporting existing businesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe Partnership is thrilled to collaborate with McClintock Distilling and the City of Frederick to support entry stage culinary entrepreneurs\u201d said Kara Norman, Executive Director of Downtown Frederick Partnership. \u201cThis project will foster a more diverse and inclusive small business community in Downtown Frederick. By making entrepreneurship more accessible, we\u2019re not just enhancing our local dining scene\u2014we\u2019re strengthening the economic landscape of our community.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Partnership is committed to strengthening Downtown Frederick\u2019s business ecosystem. This project aligns with a key goal in the organization\u2019s 2025 Strategic Plan and Equitable Business Development Strategy by cultivating entrepreneurship, growing businesses, creating jobs and increasing access to resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recognizing that access to affordable commercial space and startup capital are key hurdles for many aspiring business owners, the Partnership pursued funding opportunities that would help lower these obstacles. By securing funds to help offset buildout costs, the Partnership is able to work with McClintock Distilling (who will operate the food hall) to guarantee that future tenants have access to reduced rent and\/or upfront financial assistance. This partnership will help to lower startup costs and provide a more inclusive pathway for small- scale entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis project is a perfect example of what happens when we work together to lower the barriers to business ownership,\u201d said Mayor Michael O\u2019Connor. \u201cBy partnering with Downtown Frederick Partnership and McClintock Distilling, we\u2019re creating opportunities for entrepreneurs who might otherwise be locked out of traditional commercial spaces. It’s about making Frederick a place where good ideas and hard work have a real chance to thrive.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The project is supported by a $300,000 grant from Project Restore 2.0 \u2013 a unique, one-time grant opportunity by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) that revitalizes communities by addressing vacant buildings, supporting small businesses, creating jobs and improving commercial corridors. Grant funding restrictions which prohibit funds from being used for property acquisition or new construction on vacant lots narrowed the selection process, and the food hall site emerged as a strategic choice. Additionally, due to the project\u2019s scale and potential impact, the City of Frederick sought funding from DHCD\u2019s Strategic Demolition Fund and was ultimately awarded $200,000 to assist with the building\u2019s rehabilitation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/downtownfrederick.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/After-Removal-Terrocota-pipes-at-South-Wall-1-1-1024x768.jpg\")
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<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nRenovation costs are expected to exceed $1,000,000, including expenses for architectural design, engineering and food hall consultation. Construction is scheduled to begin in late summer 2025, with the food hall expected to be operational within the next year. The application process for food hall tenants will launch in spring 2025. McClintock Distilling and the Partnership will engage several key community partners to assist with tenant recruitment
and selection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Braeden Bumpers, Co-Founder of McClintock Distilling, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, \u201cWe are very excited to be working on this project with Downtown Frederick Partnership and the City. As a small family-owned business, we are proud to work on a project that gives opportunities to other new entrepreneurs to bring new concepts and flavors to Downtown Frederick. We hope to extend and continue the values of innovation, quality and community engagement to the food hall concept and hope it becomes a mainstay of the downtown experience.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Both the Partnership and McClintock Distilling bring extensive experience and expertise to the project. The McClintock team has previously renovated two historic properties near the project site, which now house McClintock Distilling and McClintock\u2019s Back Bar. McClintock will own and manage the food hall and oversee the design and construction process, hiring architects, engineers and contractors to complete the project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
More than just a dining destination, the food hall is poised to become a hub for community engagement, a driver of local economic growth and a catalyst for new restaurant concepts that will enhance Downtown Frederick\u2019s culinary vibrancy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For more about Downtown Frederick Partnership\u2019s initiatives, visit downtownfrederick.org.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
About Downtown Frederick Partnership<\/strong>: City of Frederick Department of Economic Development<\/strong>: McClintock Distilling:<\/strong> Contact:<\/strong> <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Downtown Frederick, Maryland \u2013 Downtown Frederick Partnership, McClintock Distilling and the City of Frederick are excited to announce the development of a new small-scale food hall in Downtown Frederick. This traditional food hall will feature four food stalls ranging from about 200 to 350 square feet, a bar and a market stall, located in a […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":32694,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_citadela_custom_class":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[757,893,754],"tags":[936],"citadela-post-location":[],"class_list":["post-32693","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-get-it-downtown","category-press-release","category-work-downtown","tag-downtown-frederick-food-hall"],"yoast_head":"\n
Founded in 1990 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Downtown Frederick Partnership has managed Downtown Frederick\u2019s Main Street program since designation in 2001. Downtown Frederick Partnership works to enhance, promote and preserve the vitality, livability and diversity of Downtown Frederick \u2014 a national Main Street community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The City of Frederick Department of Economic Development is dedicated to fostering a vibrant and sustainable economy by supporting businesses, attracting investment and enhancing workforce development. Through strategic initiatives, partnerships, and resources, the department works to create a business-friendly environment that encourages innovation,
entrepreneurship and economic growth in the City of Frederick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Founded in 2016, McClintock Distilling is a craft distillery located in Downtown Frederick, Maryland. Known for its commitment to quality and innovation, McClintock Distilling produces a range of spirits using locally sourced ingredients and traditional methods. The distillery is dedicated to sustainability, community engagement and crafting exceptional spirits that reflect the rich heritage of the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Feby Emelio
Communications Manager, Downtown Frederick Partnership
301.698.8118
feby@downtownfrederick.org<\/p>\n\n\n\n