Virginia Main Street

Since 2019, minority-owned businesses in the City of Martinsville and Henry County have been working together to create opportunities for success and overcome systemic barriers. Through dedicated efforts, and perseverance throughout the COVID pandemic, this informal network has evolved into a formal 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Minority Business Consortium (MBC). Historically, minority business owners have … More Empowering Minority-Owned Businesses in Martinsville

During the month of March, the Virginia Main Street (VMS) team published eight blog posts, highlighting the latest community-vitality news, events and more! Here’s a recap: Downtown Visitation Trends 2024 Reinvestment Statistics Main Street Tourism People and Places That Have Shaped Virginia Main Street Grant Highlights Measuring Impacts Demonstrating the Value of Main Street Stay tuned for … More In Case You Missed It: March 2025 Digest

Measuring the direct, indirect, and induced impacts of your Main Street program’s initiatives is a vital practice that provides valuable insights into the true reach and effectiveness of revitalization efforts. By quantifying these impacts, Main Street programs are equipped with data-driven evidence to communicate their value to key stakeholders. When done well, this practice not … More A Data-Driven Look at How the River District Association Drives Economic and Social Growth in Danville

Reaching a milestone like 40 years is an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable impact and achievements of those who have helped shape the Virginia Main Street program. As we celebrate this legacy, we took a moment during February’s special anniversary event to recognize the contributions of key individuals—and even one special place—whose vision, dedication, … More 40 Years Strong: Recognizing the People and Places That Shaped Virginia Main Street

Made in Bristol (MIB) continues to strengthen Bristol’s small-scale production and manufacturing businesses through increased brand awareness, creative collateral, training, and mini grants. The Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol (BIB), and the City of Bristol leveraged a FY2022 Virginia Business District Resurgence Grant (VBDRG) from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development … More “Made in Bristol” Continues to Grow and Strengthen Bristol’s Economy

A well-designed sign is more than just a marker—it’s a beacon that draws customers in, strengthens a business’s identity, and contributes to the overall vibrancy of a community’s downtown. With that in mind, the City of Norton launched its Signage Grant Program, funded by a Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) grant, to support local businesses … More Signs of Success: Norton Enhances Downtown Appeal

As we gear up for a vibrant spring and summer travel season, now is the time to ensure your downtown is ready to welcome visitors—and the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) has funding opportunities and other resources to help. If your Main Street district is looking to attract out-of-state visitors and encourage longer stays, the VTC … More Boosting Your Main Street’s Tourism with VTC Grants

In partnership with Main Street America and Placer.ai, Virginia Main Street (VMS) commissioned a report about visitation trends for all 37 historic commercial districts designated at the highest tier, Advancing Virginia Main Street (AVMS), in 2024. Placer.ai uses location data from smartphones to track visits and visitors within the specified boundaries of each Main Street … More 2024 Downtown Visitation Trends Show Progress Toward Pandemic Recovery