Aviatra Accelerators has announced the opening of a retail marketplace at its existing space in Covington.
The new retail incubator, dubbed Muse Boutiques, is designed to better support the next generation of women retail entrepreneurs. Spotlighting emerging women-owned retail brands operating within a shared space at below-market rent, the model provides a lower-risk opportunity to test products and retail concepts over a 9-month period.
The new concept reflects what women in retail need today. Designed around the growing trend of smaller-footprint storefronts, the retail marketplace features space for 22 women-owned businesses, each with its own distinct brand within a shared space. Entrepreneurs benefit from built-in support, including shared staffing and streamlined operations that reduce overhead and simplify day-to-day management.
The space is staffed five days a week through Aviatra’s collaboration with the Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission’s Senior Workforce Program, while a seamless point-of-sale system enables business owners to monitor sales and inventory in real time.
“The retail incubator is about meeting women entrepreneurs where they are right now. We’re seeing more women build incredible retail brands, but they need flexible, lower-risk ways to get into the market,” said Jill Morenz, CEO of Aviatra Accelerators. “Muse Boutiques is designed to do exactly that – give them an authentic storefront experience combined with the opportunity to test, learn and grow, while surrounding them with the support, community and tools to succeed.”
Women business owners with a Muse Boutiques storefront also receive membership in Aviatra’s community of women entrepreneurs, access to classes, coaching and business support through the Aviatra Incubator, as well as classroom and event space.
Muse Boutiques is located at 112 W. Pike Street in Covington, and features emerging women-owned retail brands – from books and fashion to food and handmade gifts – in a shared, experiential shopping environment. Hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
A limited number of dedicated retail spaces remain.
For more information, or to inquire about securing space in Aviatra’s shared retail marketplace, visit www.aviatraaccelerators.org.
Aviatra Accelerators