The Cambridge Storefront Competition, launched by Collaborative 523, Inc., in partnership with UW-Whitewater’s ENACTUS team, is now accepting applications from startups and small businesses, organizers recently announced.

According to a release, the competition is part of RenewTowns, an initiative designed to attract new businesses and strengthen the local economy. The winner will secure a prime retail space in downtown Cambridge with one year of free rent.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a business that is operational or in beta form and attend four workshops (virtual or in-person) on ideation, marketing, finance and pitch development. A panel of judges will evaluate finalists based on business synergy, collaboration potential and contributions to extending Main Street’s retail and entertainment options.

The workshops run from March 7 through April 4, with the winner announced in early May.

Applications can be done here.