The Shops of Grand Avenue is looking to create some excitement with a promotional contest, called "Retail Therapy," that will secure you and your retail idea free base rent for one year at the Downtown mall.

OnMilwaukee.com is a partner in this contest, and as you've probably read I've been providing ongoing ideas for the mall. See them here and here.

Let's face it, retail isn't easy and the Grand Avenue could use a boost. But, a great idea, team, marketing, Web strategies and product mix will help you succeed. Free rent isn't a bad thing either.

Here's what you have to do. With the submission of a comprehensive business plan, your retail business idea will be judged based on concept, feasibility, uniqueness and contributing potential to The Shops of Grand Avenue and Downtown. I'm on the judging panel, by the way.

In addition to free base rent for one year, the contest will grant the winning contestant prizes designed to build a successful and prosperous retail store. These include:

• Interior Design Retail Concept courtesy of Kahler Slater
• $2,500 advertising package courtesy of OnMilwaukee.com
• Free one year membership to Visit Milwaukee
• Free one year membership to Westown Association
• Grand Opening Kit courtesy of Kroll-Salkin Corporation
• Logo design courtesy of Spark Milwaukee
• Premium ticket package promotion courtesy of Connections Tickets

"We are very excited to see what this contest brings to the city of Milwaukee!" says Erica Anderson, director of marketing for the mall.

To enter your idea or for more information on The Shops of Grand Avenue visit grandavenueshops.com.