Main Street communities are much more than picturesque avenues with historic charm and walkable sidewalks. They are vibrant corridors with strong community pride and a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem that are lifelines for small businesses—providing support and resources essential to their success. An entrepreneurial ecosystem is the alignment of a variety of public and private efforts—including … More Celebrating Business Expansions Across Main Streets

The Town of Marion recently took a significant step forward on its revitalization journey by completing a financial feasibility study on a one-story building that currently houses a brewery. Once underutilized, the 1960s-era commercial building has found new life under the care of its current owners but has the ability to be further updated and … More Brewing Up New Opportunities in Marion, VA

In August, the Farmville community extended a warm and enthusiastic welcome to students returning to both Longwood University (LU) and Hampden-Sydney College (HSC). Whether new to campus or returning for another year, Longwood Lancers and Hampden-Sydney Tigers were greeted with a strong sense of community as they settled back into town following the summer break. … More College Town Connections: Welcome Back Week in Farmville, VA Brings Students and Families Downtown

Discover the Who / What / When / Where / Why of a Grant Opportunity! VA250 Tourism Marketing Program & Tourism Development Finance Program The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is excited to present a monthly grants opportunity brief that could be a game-changer for your growing Communities! This brief is designed to empower … More Virginia Tourism Corporation: Tourism Industry Funding Opportunities

Small businesses are the heartbeat of Main Streets everywhere, providing the economic engine that drives thriving downtowns. Earlier this month, Main Street America (MSA) published the results of their Spring 2024 Small Business Survey, which reflected the experiences of 996 businesses across 46 states and offered a snapshot of the state of local businesses across … More Strategizing Small Business Support

During the month of August, the Virginia Main Street (VMS) team published seven blog posts, highlighting the latest community-vitality news, events and more! Here’s a recap: Grant Opportunities The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is excited to present a monthly grants opportunity brief that could be a game-changer for your growing Communities! This brief is designed … More In Case You Missed It: August 2024 Digest

The Phoebus Partnership fosters continued exploration of their historic district through the Phoebus Historic District Self-Guided Tour. The virtual, self-guided tour features information about all contributing structures within the City of Hampton’s 86-acre historic district—including detailed descriptions of architectural styles, historic events, and previous business occupants, along with community-sourced photos. Last summer, after finding a … More Discover Phoebus’ Vibrant History Through Their Self-Guided Tour

As a participant in the Virginia Rural Leadership Institute’s (VRLI) 2024 Cohort, Zachary Whitlow, Community Vitality Program Administrator for the Department of Housing and Community Development, provides an overview of the second VRLI session of the year, which was held in Abingdon, Bristol and Marion on July 17-19, 2024. The Virginia Rural Leadership Institute’s (VRLI) second session … More Virginia Rural Leadership Institute Brings Cohort Members to Southwest Virginia

Culpeper Renaissance, Inc. (CRI) proudly unveiled five new murals in downtown through their Art in Public Spaces Power Box Mural Program. Featuring the unique work of local artists, the murals beautify utility boxes and create a more inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors. The murals reflect the regions natural beauty and local heritage – depicting … More Culpeper Unveils Power Box Murals

The Virginia Department of Historic Resources (DHR) has a new grant opportunity that is open to localities, 501(c)(3) non-profits, and federally or state recognized tribes. The Virginia 250 Preservation Fund is meant to help celebrate and prepare for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and has $20 million worth of grant funding available. Projects … More Grant Opportunity: Virginia 250 Preservation Fund