We've Launched Alabama's First Statewide Business focused Twitter Chat - #BizChatAL ! During our ninth chat, we talked with Ashley Morrow — whose firm Click Synergy is responsible for opening a retail incubator in City of Tuscumbia, Alabama - Government . Our quick conversation shared the best way to get started.

A retail incubator is a place that allows people who have always dreamed of opening their own shop a way to do so without spending tens of thousands of dollars doing so. #bizchatAL

Opening a storefront is about $50k the first year conservatively before you ever purchase a piece of inventory. Our model offers reduced rent, coaching, all the displays you needs. You pay rent and put in your stuff. Easy peasy. #bizchatAL

To be in our incubator, you pay a deposit and first month rent, that’s $500 total, and then you start buying stuff. $500 vs over $50k? No brainer. #bizchatAL

We take people from concept to business. Ours is different because we have a focus on coaching each shop on strategies for sales, marketing, etc. #bizchatAL

There are a lot of places who sublet space for startups but the key is coaching. Everyone needs a coach and we know from experience that coaching equates to higher sales. #bizchatAL

With retail jobs being one of the top job sources in Alabama, it makes sense to invest in an area that creates tax revenue AND jobs. I think cities and municipalities can and should think about investors but also grant money. Especially in rural areas. #bizchatAL

Coaching. Coaching. Coaching. Strategy, teamwork, a collective collaboration of efforts, oh and did I mention coaching? Those partnerships are INCREDIBLY important and we have a good group here who thoughtfully try to navigate and balance the complicated world of econ development. #bizchatAL

You can read more about Ashley’s progress here: Firm Envisions Downtown Retail Incubator

Want to be part of the statewide #BizChatAL conversation? join us every Thursday on Twitter from 2-3PM/CST on our twitter account: @mtlakeschamber or follow the hashtag #BizChatAL

Biz Chat 009 Starting a Retail Incubator with Ashley Morrow