
Virginia Main Street (VMS) is excited to offer the regional Rev Up training on Retail and Small Business Support, a dynamic, half-day training designed to help communities take their downtown efforts to the next level.
Led by the experts at Retail Alliance, this workshop is designed for Main Street managers, small business owners, and community partners, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to better support independent retailers and foster long-term economic vitality.
Participants will explore four key focus areas essential to a thriving downtown:
- Retail & Market Data – learn how to access and apply data to better understand your district and make informed decisions
- Retail Leasing – gain insight into the leasing process and how to support both property owners and entrepreneurs
- Business Retention & Growth – discover ways to support retailers beyond opening day and throughout their lifecycle
- Pathways to Ownership – explore strategies that help business owners transition from leasing to owning property
Each session is designed to be highly engaging, with hands-on activities, real-world examples, and opportunities to discuss challenges and opportunities specific to your community.
To make participation accessible, VMS is hosting this workshop in every corner of the state: Pulaski, Lexington, Leesburg, and Cape Charles. While the content will be consistent at each session, you can choose the date and location that works best for you and your team.
If you’re looking to strengthen your downtown, support your small businesses more effectively, and build a more resilient local economy, this workshop is for you. Register for the workshop here.
Cape Charles’ Rev Up session was made possible through a partnership with the Impact Center.

