Free Lease Program 

Jonesboro JumpStart is a public-private economic development initiative designed and administered by S.A.F.E. (Stewardship And Fund Efficiency). This program was developed in partnership with the City of Jonesboro to activate vacant commercial properties by temporarily leasing them—at no cost—to vetted local entrepreneurs. It offers a replicable framework for other cities seeking to transform chronic commercial vacancy into measurable local growth without new taxes.

A Practical Model for Revitalization

What It Does

Jonesboro JumpStart allows property owners with long-vacant storefronts to waive escalating code enforcement fines by enrolling their properties into a 90-day pop-up incubation program. During that period, local startups are granted access to the space rent-free, while the City gains valuable data, business license activity, and visible downtown activation.

Economic Inclusion

The initiative is governed by a formal ordinance and supported by a structured agreement between the City, the property owner, and the startup. The program includes public reporting requirements, fee transparency, and community-benefit thresholds built directly into the selection process.

How It Helps Government

  • Eliminates Vacancy Blight: Converts liabilities into productive space, reducing code enforcement costs and repeat violations.

  • Drives Measurable Economic Activity: Generates new sales tax revenue, license registrations, and small business data in under 90 days.

  • Provides Immediate ROI: Turns previously idle inventory into foot traffic, business formation, and improved public perception.

  • Enables Smarter Use of Public Funds: Uses reallocated façade improvement funds through the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), with strict fiscal governance.

  • Demonstrates Policy Innovation: Aligns with Georgia home-rule law and enables strategic compliance through an ordinance-supported framework.

How It Benefits the Public

  • Brings New Life to the Downtown Core: Dark storefronts become active hubs of retail, food, art, and services.

  • Improves Walkability and Safety: Activated spaces lead to better-lit corridors, increased pedestrian activity, and improved curb appeal.

  • Boosts Local Hiring and Sourcing: Startups must demonstrate local economic benefit, including jobs and sourcing from nearby suppliers.

  • Promotes Civic Pride: Residents see direct, positive use of local government action and vacant space policy.

How It Supports Entrepreneurs

  • Rent-Free Commercial Space: Up to 90 days of rent-free operations in a central business district storefront.

  • Zero Equity Taken: Startups keep 100% of their business and benefit from real-world testing with no accelerator ownership model.

  • City-Backed Visibility: Entrepreneurs benefit from municipal visibility, local press, and investor credibility.

  • Graduation Path: Many businesses convert to permanent leases or use the proof of concept to raise capital.

A Replicable Policy Tool

Jonesboro JumpStart is more than a one-off pilot. It is a codified, budgeted municipal program that cities across Georgia—and beyond—can adopt. It is a compliance alternative, an economic engine, and a visibility win for all stakeholders.

S.A.F.E. designed the ordinance, manages implementation, oversees reporting, and ensures legal and fiscal accountability across all stakeholders.

For replication, licensing, or consultation: info@joinsafe.org