Launched in 2021, Partner to Empower has helped businesses around the country grow their brick-and-mortar footprint. We continue to expand across the nation, supporting the dreams of entrepreneurs through funding and resources. It’s an honor to work with so many talented individuals, and we’re excited to partner with even more businesses in the future.
Our program at a glance
260+
businesses have graduated from the Retail Workshop
280+
hours of Retail Workshop learning across 7 cohorts
65+
stores have signed a retail lease with us
Success story spotlight
Fresca Palapa
In 2019, Maximo Cruz debuted the Fresca Palapa concept with the hopes of bringing Mexican-inspired flavors like horchata, chamoy, Tajín, and tamarind to the masses. With the support of the Partner to Empower Retail Workshop and the reach of the Brookfield Properties' U.S. retail portfolio, Fresca Palapa has expanded across two states and is now gearing up to open their 7th location with us at Baybrook Mall in Friendswood, TX.
Their delicious offerings include a variety of vibrantly-hued beverages and snacks, from flavored agua frescas and fresh-squeezed juices to smoothies, piña coladas, and their signature mangonadas. Hungry shoppers can delight in the these healthy and photo-worthy creations daily, or discover their rotating seafood specials like shrimp cocktail (cóctel de camarones) or fish ceviche available only on the weekends.
Fresca Palapa has locations at Baybrook Mall, Quail Springs Mall, Stonebriar Centre, The Parks Mall at Arlington, The Woodlands Mall, Town East Mall, and Willowbrook Mall.