Web site links local bizs with office space
Austin Business Journal
The Austin Independent Business Alliance launched a new online database today that lists commercial properties available for sale and lease specifically to local and independent businesses.
The AIBA homepage at www.IbuyAustin.com has a link to the database that will give local businesses a new way to shop for real estate. The new endeavor also provides property owners and developers interested in recruiting local businesses with a means to reach them.
"When AIBA brought together local developers and business owners a couple years ago to brainstorm ideas for locating local businesses in new commercial developments, the biggest obstacle we identified was communication," says Melissa Miller, director of AIBA. "That's when the idea for the online database was born."
Rick Engel, the co-owner of Austin Java and Little Woodrow's, says he believes many developers want to include local businesses in their projects -- it's just a matter of making contact.
"The national chains all have brokers finding them space in new developments, so if you're a local looking to expand like we are, this tool helps even the playing field," says Engel.
Catellus Development Group, the lead developer behind the transformation of the Robert Mueller Municipal Airport into a mixed-use community, was one of the first groups to contribute listings on the new site. Catellus is posting lease opportunities to help recruit Austin-based businesses for Mueller's regional retail and town center.
The site is the newest initiative of AIBA's Connecting & Linking Independents with Commercial Developments (CLIC) Program, which connects local commercial developers and independent businesses for placement in new developments.
© 2007 Austin Business Journal
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