The national Main Street Program is a community-driven approach to economic revitalization that targets older, traditional business districts throughout the United States. Its four-point approach encompasses work in four distinct areas—design, economic restructuring, promotion, and organization. Taken together, these four areas provide a comprehensive strategy that attempts to address all of the commercial district’s economic needs and opportunities.
The approach of the Main Street Program is incremental; it is not designed to produce immediate change. This long-term revitalization effort requires time, effective leadership, and local capacity building. Many states are expanding the scope of their Main Street Programs to encompass a broader economic development perspective beyond its historic downtown main street perspective. Although entrepreneurial training is not always a showcase Main Street Program, many states are developing and implementing entrepreneurial training activities, especially for downtown businesses and entrepreneurs.
A new twist being added to many Main Street Programs is a focus on business succession, given that many local retail establishments are currently owned by individuals who are at or near retirement age.
For more information on the national Main Street Program, visit: National Main Street.
