Known as a hotspot for independent businesses and one-off boutiques, Ballard recently doubled down on the “Shop Local” mantra with a new collective shopping experience.

“Smål Market was created to help small retailers overcome the financial and logistical barriers of opening a business in Ballard’s competitive commercial district,” says Mike Stewart, executive director at Ballard Alliance. “[It] provides affordable retail space, staffing, and business development opportunities designed to help small businesses grow, with the eventual goal of finding their own commercial spaces.”

Photo by People People

Funded by congressionally directed spending secured by Senator Patty Murray, the project is driven by the mission to give small businesses a leg up in a landscape where rent prices are often a barrier to entry. There are six local retailers, including Ruby Laine Apparel, Noir Lux Candle Bar, and Riverbed Lifestyle. According to Stewart, “patronage helps us support the operations of the space, host pop-ups and special events, and continue creating opportunities for emerging businesses to grow and connect with the community.”