Good examples are small grocery stores, video rentals, hair salons, and coffee shops. The third suggestion is to design and retrofit developments to better serve pedestrians. Provide incentives and do pilot projects in areas open to the idea. Chances are at least one neighborhood is already zoned for higher densities and residents are eager for new development to revitalize their community. Try a pilot program there to encourage mixed-use development and higher densities.
Incentives can take many forms.
In some cities, developers of multi-family housing on arterial streets are allowed to add units if they reserve the first floor for retail. Allowing additional building height is another way to get first floor retail space. Alternatively, developers of office buildings can be allowed more square footage if the building includes one floor of apartments. Not only does this add density, it helps brings people and life to areas that are otherwise deserted at night. Consider setting a goal to include some housing in every building constructed in certain areas of your community.