People's Opportunity Program for Underserved Populations
Expanding economic opportunities for local, low-income, and minority business people in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
Taking dreams and making them a reality
POP-UP was born from a vision to help the local minority small business community. The Housing Authority of Bowling Green leads the effort, partnering with local banks, community organizations, and business leaders to give entrepreneurs the tools, funding, and mentorship they need to grow.
POP-UP helps clients build balance sheets, develop business plans, and become bankable — giving a hand up to those who might otherwise never have access to the resources needed to launch and sustain a business.
"POP-UP is committed to expanding economic opportunities for minorities and other under-resourced members of our community by providing business know-how and financial resources for positively impacting new and existing business development."
POP-UP in Action
How POP-UP Works
POP-UP serves minority-owned, women-owned, and low-income small businesses, as well as business owners who suffered losses from the 2021 tornadoes. Here's how the program works:
Apply
Stop by the HABG office at 247 Double Springs Rd to pick up an application, or download it and email it to mstockton@habg.org.
Develop Your Plan
Work one-on-one with a POP-UP consultant to build a business plan, strengthen your financial position, and prepare to present to the board.
Board Presentation
Present your plan to the POP-UP Board of Directors for review and consideration for funding and resources.
Launch & Grow
Receive a microloan of up to $10,000, access mentorship, and connect with WKU students and community partners invested in your success.
Houchens Industries Small Business Accelerator
The former Save-A-Lot building at 348 College St. has been renovated into a 20,000-square-foot small business accelerator — located in the heart of Bowling Green's historic Shake Rag community. The space offers affordable commercial rent for minority-owned, women-owned, and low-income small businesses, as well as tornado survivors looking to rebuild.
Space for Up to 11 Tenants
Suites range from 800 to 2,500 square feet. Businesses selected can stay up to four years, giving them time to establish operations, grow their customer base, and prepare for the next step. Accelerators are designed to take established businesses to the next level — not just get them started, but help them thrive.
This project was made possible through a partnership among Houchens Industries, the City of Bowling Green, the State of Kentucky, and HABG's Live the Dream Development Inc. Applications are currently being accepted. Contact us to learn about availability.
Download Application (PDF) Email mstockton@habg.orgBusinesses We've Helped Launch
These are just some of the entrepreneurs POP-UP has supported with funding, mentorship, and resources. Each one represents a dream that became a business.
Pan American Apparel, LLC
YVNG Forever Playzone, LLC
Keisha's Unique Eyes, LLC
Late Nite Sweets N Treats, LLC
Jim Reynolds Asphalt Contractor, Inc.
K'Nai Beauty Supply & Salon, LLC
A Taste of Sunshine, LLC
Abstract Lyfestyle Ltd. Co., LLC
Katy's Creative Catering, LLC
Em Designs, LLC
270 Fry & Grill, LLC
Visionary Marketing, LLC
The Bluegrass Bayou, LLC
Lashley, LLC DBA Atarah Beauty Bar
For more on individual businesses, visit habgpopup.org/pop-up-success-stories.
POP-UP Coverage
Be Part of the Solution
POP-UP thrives because of community partners, mentors, and donors who believe in the power of small business. Whether you have expertise to share or want to invest in a future entrepreneur, there is a role for you.
Become an Ally or Mentor
Do you have business expertise, professional connections, or access to resources that could help a client launch or grow? POP-UP is always looking for community members willing to invest their time and knowledge.
Contact Us to Get InvolvedApply as a Client
Is your business the next big thing? If you are a minority-owned, women-owned, or low-income business owner in the Bowling Green area, POP-UP may be able to fund your growth and connect you with the mentorship you need.
Reach Out to Start the ConversationReady to take the next step?
Contact the POP-UP team to learn about the program, apply for the accelerator, or find out how you can support local entrepreneurs.