TechTown Detroit, a business innovation hub, is accepting applications for its fourth annual 2015 Retail Boot Camp.

A six-member TechTown panel will choose 15 participants. Last year, TechTown received 50 applications, a figure Regina Ann Campbell, TechTown’s managing director of place-based entrepreneurship, expects to double this year.

“We’re looking for entrepreneurs with great ideas that address neighborhood needs. For those willing to put in the work, this will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to turn a retail idea into reality,” she said in a statement.

“Having a really strong retail concept is important for this program,” Campbell told Crain's.

The eight-week camp prepares business entrepreneurs for the launch of their brick-and-mortar business in a core Detroit commercial district. Applicants must have retail experience, locate their business in Detroit, funding sources and a strong proposition that offers an exciting or niche product.

Concepts covered through the boot camp include choosing the right location, marketing and branding and taxes and insurance.

The camp runs Sept. 14 to Nov. 3. Sessions will take place 6-9 p.m. Tuesdays and include online and in-person sessions covering Detroit-specific topics. All graduates will receive a professional service package valued at $3,500.

There will also be a “Draft Day,” when select graduates will be awarded packages valued up to $7,500.

Up to five graduates will be selected by partner organizations to open brick-and-mortar or pop-up storefronts in the city.

Applications will be accepted online until July 31. Program fee is $499.

The interested are encouraged to attend one of three information sessions:

June 29: 8:30-9:30 a.m. at TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs

8:30-9:30 a.m. at TechTown Detroit, 440 Burroughs June 30: 6-7 p.m. at Always Brewing Detroit, 10180 Grand River Ave.

6-7 p.m. at Always Brewing Detroit, 10180 Grand River Ave. July 1: 11 a.m.-noon at Coffee and (___), 14409 Jefferson Ave.