A pair of banners grace a light post on Festival Street in Hermiston. The Hermiston Downtown District is hosting its monthly First Thursday event on Aug. 1, 2024, on Main Street and beyond.

HERMISTON — Local entrepreneurs interested in starting a business can get help — including six months free rent — through the Downtown Business Incubator.

The Hermiston Downtown District, in partnership with the city of Hermiston, started the program in 2023. It offers support in helping people get a new business off the ground or establish a brick-and-mortar location for a home-based business.

Applications are due by March 31 to the Hermiston Downtown District. For more information, search Facebook via bit.ly/3hQ0Ykk. For an application, email hermistondowntowndistrict@gmail.com or stop by Lucky Endz Gifts, 239 E. Main St.