Month: December 2016

Congratulations to Virginia’s 2016 National Main Street Accredited Communities

December 20, 2016

Each year, the National Main Street Center and its coordinating program partners announce the list of accredited Main Street America programs in recognition of their exemplary commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization through the Main Street Approach®. This year twenty-one Virginia Main Street Communities met the rigorous performance standards set by the National Main Street … More Congratulations to Virginia’s 2016 National Main Street Accredited Communities

BrewDog, Gloucester Wants You!

December 16, 2016

Guest Blogger Jenny Crittenden, executive director of Gloucester Main Street Preservation Trust, started with Main Street in 2006.  Her leadership has inspired key partnerships and implementable growth strategies for Gloucester Village, including the creation of façade and interior improvement grant programs and an annual symphony concert that brings over 2,000 visitors to downtown.  As we … More BrewDog, Gloucester Wants You!

Building Entrepreneurial Economies (BEE) Grants Awarded

December 14, 2016

Governor McAuliffe recently announced over $200,000 in Building Entrepreneurial Economies (BEE) grant awards for eight projects in the Commonwealth. The BEE grant program provides funding to local governments and nonprofit organizations for entrepreneurship programs aligned with local and regional economic development strategies, primarily in distressed communities and populations. “Small business development is a vital component … More Building Entrepreneurial Economies (BEE) Grants Awarded

Innovative Models for Main Street Businesses

December 9, 2016

In August of 2016 a local beauty boutique opened in Harrisonburg’s Main Street district in an unusual and fantastic location, a 1975 Airstream Land Yacht.  Airstream Beauty Boutique owner Irina Dovganetskiy needed a small space that would allow her to test the market and grow her business – handmade beauty products using natural and toxic-free … More Innovative Models for Main Street Businesses

Yuletide Destinations and Activities

December 8, 2016

In December, Main Streets across Virginia become the center of holiday festivities and the nexus of community gathering for celebration and shopping.  The historic charm, decorative lights, and independent shops wistfully spark memories mixed with fresh, 21st century rejuvenation.  It’s cool to ring in the old and new. That charm is reminiscent of a scene … More Yuletide Destinations and Activities