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 Training / Education Creating a Self-Guided District Tour Bringing a 1930s-era Theatre Back to Life Power Box Murals Stay tuned for lots more great content in September!
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
Located in the heart of Tappahannock’s historic district, the DAW Theatre has a rich history dating back to its grand opening in February 1939. Named after its original owners—E.M. Doar, H.S. Atkinson, and R.B. Wallace—the theater was once a cultural hub, drawing crowds from across Tidewater with its 500-seat Art Deco style and hosting everything … More DAW Theatre: Breathing New Life Into a Historic Gem
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
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the landscape across various sectors, including the nonprofit world. As your local Main Street program strives to do more with limited resources, AI offers solutions that can help streamline operations, enhance communication, and improve overall efficiency so there is more room to focus on real community impact. Artificial Intelligence … More Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Nonprofits: Registration Open for Upcoming Workshop Series
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
Discover the Who / What / When / Where / Why of a Grant Opportunity! U.S. Department of Transportation: Federal Transit Administration | Enhancing Mobility Innovation 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 … More Department of Transportation Grant Opportunity: Enhancing Mobility Innovation
During the month of July, the Virginia Main Street (VMS) team published eight blog posts, highlighting the latest community-vitality news, events and more! Here’s a recap: 2024 VMS Merit Awards Appreciative Inquiry in Urbanna’s Main Street Startup Transforming Lynchburg’s Fifth Street District Stay tuned for lots more great content in August!
Virginia Main Street 