Project Highlight
IndY Retail Strategy
Creating pathways for creative businesses to establish a downtown presence through strategic real estate partnerships. Supported by the City of Indianapolis and GANGGANG.
Startup 317 Highlights
WDRFA – A Boutique with Purpose
Mike Gillis and Gary Patterson transformed their retail expertise into WDRFA, an upscale boutique housed in Indianapolis’s historic Stutz Building. Drawing from their experience with major retailers like Lids and the Colts Pro Shop, this uncle-nephew duo has created a brand that blends high-end streetwear with meaningful symbolism. Their collections of sweats, nylon pants, and T-shirts consistently sell out, resonating with the city’s creative community. The brand name, “We Don’t Run From Adversity,” reflects their commitment to inspiration through design, with each piece incorporating thoughtful social commentary and family tributes. As IUPUI graduates, they’ve established themselves as significant players in Indianapolis’s fashion scene, bringing their vision of refined, purposeful streetwear to life.
In The Mix Highlights
GANGGANG’S “In The Mix” is an initiative designed to create avenues for Black-owned creative businesses to initiate or grow their retail presence in downtown Indianapolis and other significant commercial areas.
Led by Cat Consulting’s Catherine Esselman in equal partnership with Anthony Murdock II, Esselman utilized her expertise in commercial real estate to craft and negotiate agreements between landlords and established Black-owned enterprises to bring this opportunity to life.
Featured Press
Indianapolis Business Journal
Q&A with Catherine Esselman on reimagining real estate
January 3, 2025
Indianapolis Reporter
Former St’Artup 317 brand opens Mass Ave storefront
December 20, 2024
IndyStar
These Indy startups needed a boost. The city stepped in with vacant real estate.
September 5, 2024
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Economic Development & Retail Strategy Specialist
Catherine Esselman
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Explore Other Projects
The INDEX Visitor Center & Gift Shop
NBA All-Star Real Estate Coordination
Indianapolis Retail Strategy
Startup 317, In The Mix
Get In Touch
Phone: (317) 432-2763
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/catherineesselman
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