Bklyn•ish T-Shirt

Michelle Cadore

Where are you from/where did you grow up?

Brooklyn born and raised. East Flatbush/ Little West Indies. Currently residing in Canarsie for 20+ years.

Why did you start your business?

DA SPOT NYC launched in 2017 with a clear purpose: to go beyond just being a retail space and instead become a platform for creativity. Having experienced firsthand the hurdles of building a small business in isolation, we recognized the need to create a supportive ecosystem. Our mission is multifaceted: to provide brand visibility, access to economic opportunities, offer mentorship, deliver business education and resources, all while fostering a collaborative community. Since our inception, DA SPOT has been dedicated to empowering BIPOC creatives, artists, and small businesses.

How does your work connect to Brooklyn?

DA SPOT has a strong connection to Brooklyn, old and new. We serve as a hub for local creative brands, with 90% of our brands originating from Brooklyn. Our location in the heart of Downtown Brooklyn, within City Point BKLYN (formerly known as Albee Square Mall), further solidifies our ties to the borough. By providing a space for these brands, DA SPOT not only fosters creativity but also preserves the vibrant atmosphere and nostalgia for which Brooklyn is known.