On May 17th, we reopened the doors to a new and improved Gallery on Centre.
Located at 1840 Centre Avenue across from the Elsie H. Hillman Auditorium in the Hill District, Catapult’s second Gallery Retail Incubator storefront was recently renovated thanks to a $25,000 Avenues of Hope grant from the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh. The funds allowed us to take this space to the next level.
Collaborative Approach for a Complete Experience
LaToya Johnson Rainey, interior decorator and owner of A Hair Boutique, took our vision and designed a complete experience. The gallery now feels like an upscale boutique, complete with crystal chandeliers, dedicated seating areas, and custom shelving and displays designed to showcase a diverse range of merchandise while still looking cohesive.
Catapulting Growing Entrepreneurs
The majority of businesses selling their products in the gallery are graduates of Catapult’s Startup to Storefront program, alongside a few local Hill District businesses. Participating entrepreneurs benefit from reduced rent, with Catapult Startup to Storefront graduates receiving at least the first six months free. This allows these growing entrepreneurs to test their products in a low-risk environment and high-visibility location.
Products in the gallery include everything from home products to clothing and accessories, beauty and haircare, food seasonings, and more.
Daynell Marbury is a graduate of the 2023 Catapult Startup to Storefront cohort where she developed her resin art business, HelloBoutiq. The Gallery on Centre is now an exclusive brick- and-mortar venue for her work.
“This opportunity means a lot to me, as it represents a significant step in my journey,” Marbury shared. “It offers me the chance to gain visibility, connect with potential buyers, and receive feedback from a diverse audience.”
For Michael Pattillo, founder of the catering and food business Michael’s Manna, the opportunity to sell his seasoned flour, signature grill seasonings, and flavor-infused salts in the gallery is a full circle moment.
“I grew up on Whiteside Road, so it’s pretty cool to come back to my neighborhood and have a presence,” he said. “To be able to say that I’m selling my own creations in my old neighborhood is priceless for me.”
The Future of Gallery on Centre
This community focus is a key part of our vision for our Gallery Retail Incubators. The goal is for the spaces to benefit not only the business owners but also the entire community. That’s why we are currently rolling out a plan for entrepreneurs and community organizations to rent out the space for pop-up shops, community meetings, and more.
“We are continuing to break barriers for those who need it, and we want the Gallery on Centre to help with that,” said Bell.
