The Main Street Challenge is set to get underway early next year. On this week's podcast, we give you the lowdown on the City's latest economic development program.
 
The challenge is designed to help three entrepreneurs open new businesses next year by providing a cash incentive of $12,000 to be used as rent assistance in a downtown location pre-identified by the City and the property owner. The selection process will include several phases, with six finalists ultimately presenting detailed business plans to the selection committee. In addition to the $12,000 incentive provided by the City, additional in-kind incentives -- such as marketing assistance, printing, etc. -- will be provided to each winner by local businesses who have agreed to participate.
 
What kind of businesses will win the challenge? A new restaurant? An ice cream shop? A vintage arcade and game room? We have no idea, and even taking a guess would undoubtedly show how unequal we are to the task of matching our citizens' imagination. In short, prepare to be wowed, Spartanburg.