Open with confidence
New to downtown Racine — or thinking about it? Every new business gets the same welcome, no matter who you already know. Our onboarding walks you through every step, from first hello to your first social.
Five steps to open downtown
A simple path from your first conversation to your first social — with a downtown liaison beside you the whole way.
We reach out
Within a few days of signing a lease or buying a building, the BID gets in touch and adds you to downtown's email and text lists.
Get open
Start with the City's Department of City Development to confirm what your business needs. Ask early about sign approval, sidewalk café and right-of-way permits, and build-out approvals.
Get connected
Meet the owners on your block and join the next merchant social.
Get seen
We'll add you to the directory and your grand opening to the calendar. Send us your story, photos, and social handles, and we may feature you on the site and social media.
We check in
Around 30 and 90 days in, we'll check how it's going and what you need.
Have Any Questions?
Reach out to Racine BID (Business Improvement District) if you have any questions or need any help at all. We're here for you!
Contact UsLet's start with hello
Reach out and we'll pair you with a downtown liaison who knows the district and can help you open with confidence.
Already downtown? Keep your listing current.
Update your hours, contact, and details so every visitor finds the right information.