Fraport USA has joined forces with Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall (BWI Marshall) Airport to introduce LaunchPad, a pilot program designed to create opportunities for local entrepreneurs to jump start their small business in retail.
Four inaugural LaunchPad businesses are now operating at BWI Marshall airport, including Fashion Spa House, offering lash and brow services, as well as clothing, accessories and vegan skincare; Flawless Damsels Boutique, catering to the fashion needs of women of all ages, sizes, ethnicities and cultures; New Secrets Tea, promoting holistic wellness and self-care through organic gourmet herbal teas; and Roshé Cosmetics & B.E.A.T. School of Makeup Artistry, offering professional makeup services and other cosmetic applications.
Cynthia Gooding, owner of Fashion Spa House, said, “The LaunchPad program has given my brand the ability to engage with my target audience on a broader and more consistent scale. We are excited and grateful to be part of this exceptional opportunity.”
As participants in the LaunchPad program, the nascent operators received custom retail merchandising units, along with additional training, sales and marketing support to start up their small businesses at the airport.
Ricky Smith, executive director of BWI Marshall Airport, said, “LaunchPad was developed to give local startups an authentic business experience and access to a unique, high performing retail program. Our customers appreciate LaunchPad because they can support local businesses and experience the best of Baltimore and Washington. The small business owners have an opportunity to expose their brand to millions of visitors in the airport.”