In the heart of Brookfield’s Eight Corners district, a row of colorful 12-by-15-foot storefronts has transformed Progress Park into a hub of creativity, commerce and community spirit.
The Brookfield Shops Retail Incubator Program, launched in June, is part of the village’s broader Economic Incentive Plan for the area. It’s a space where small businesses can take root, test ideas and grow, all with a strong dose of community support.
“The small retail shops redefine how small businesses take root and thrive in the heart of a community,” said Libby Popovic, director of community and economic development. “It’s designed as a program that combines resources, education and a launchpad for emerging entrepreneurs and small businesses. The program offers prime retail space, tailored mentorship and strategic village marketing support at a fraction of traditional start-up costs. It’s designed to infuse an underutilized area with more energy and opportunity for new business.”
The project moved quickly. Approved by the Board of Trustees in September 2024, the $135,000 buildout was completed in time for a grand opening at the start of June 2025. Six shops now fill the space:
- The Shop Salon & Style House – trendy clothing for multiple generations
- New Book Joy – curated books and book baskets
- Frost With Us – baked goods and frosting essentials
- Rites of Wellness – organic oils, teas and wellness items
- Four Star Coffee – fresh, dynamic coffee
- Organic Jewelry – handcrafted, organic jewelry
For the inaugural year, the first cohort of vendors will operate for eight months. Popovic said the selection process was competitive and modeled after a “shark tank”-style pitch. Each applicant submitted a business plan and presented their vision to a jury of residents, business owners and community stakeholders.
The program doesn’t stop at just one season.
Current vendors can apply to stay on as “graduates” in 2026, while new entrepreneurs will have the chance to join next spring. All will participate in a graduation ceremony to mark their time in the program.
“What I love most about the Brookfield Shops project is how it transforms an economic development plan into something the community can see, feel and experience,” Popovic said. “It’s not just about fostering small businesses, but about bringing energy and community activity right onto the site, creating a destination that draws people in and strengthens the Eight Corners area. Personally I like that this project is where vision meets action and where local economy can grow.”
Beyond shopping, the village is working to turn the courtyard into a gathering place. Brookfield recently earned a Cook County Creative-Placemaking Grant with the Brookfield Theatre to help create an outdoor performance space for concerts, arts events and community gatherings.
The Brookfield Shops are open Fridays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Vendor applications and performance inquiries can be submitted through the program’s website at www.thebrookfieldshops.com or the village site at www.BrookfieldIL.gov.
The village is also currently accepting applications from artists interested in showcasing their work and from musicians interested in performing in the courtyard. “We are working to create a community space that can be enjoyed by all,” Popovic said. All applications are available at this link: Brookfield Shops Application Form.
