Applications will soon open for the second year of Bartlesville’s start‑up incubation program at Centennial Park, with submissions to be accepted Aug. 1-31.
Community Development Director Larry Curtis noted the strong foundation laid in the program’s first year.
“The inaugural round of this program was a success, demonstrating the value of investing in our community and the enthusiasm of our residents to participate,” Curtis said. “We look forward to building on that momentum in year two.”
The initiative, approved by the City Council in January 2025 and managed by the Park Board, is designed to foster local entrepreneurship and innovation. By repurposing a 500‑square‑foot building within the park, the program offers an affordable short‑term platform for start‑ups and small businesses to launch and test their concepts in a real‑world environment. The facility includes one room and a restroom, making it ideal for retail, gallery/showroom or other uses. Rent and city services are provided at no cost to the tenant, with the exception of electricity, which must be set up in the business’s name or charged back.
The six‑month lease period ensures a rotation of businesses, creating fresh opportunities for new ventures and varied community engagement. Applications will be evaluated based on business feasibility, community impact, and alignment with the space’s limitations. The structured application form requires detailed business goals, marketing strategies, and a financial plan, ensuring that selected participants are prepared to succeed within the program’s parameters.
Once the application period closes, submissions will be reviewed by the Park Board. For more information or to apply, visit www.cityofbartlesville.org/departments/community-development/start-incubation-program-centennial-park