The Greater Des Moines Partnership has launched the Spark DSM Minority Business Incubator program, which is now accepting applications for upcoming downtown events. Applications, which are open through May 7, include the Downtown Farmers’ Market and World Food & Music Festival. The program aims to connect attendees of major events with new vendors and welcome small business owners with diverse backgrounds who are interested in becoming full-time vendors in the future. To participate, businesses must be minority-owned, operated, and actively managed by individuals falling under one or more categories, including people of color, women, persons with disabilities, disabled veterans, or LGBTQ+. The program also requires businesses to sell locally grown/handmade items. The Spark DSM program is sponsored by Principal and EMC Insurance, with partners including the Evelyn K. Davis Center, Center at Sixth and LadyLike. Applications are open until May 7, and past participants include Joy of Curl McCabe Artistry and Cie Cie’s Sweet Treats. Learn more about the Spark DSM Program on the Partnership’s website.