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Three businesses named as finalists in Wisconsin’s Main Street Makeover Contest
The winning business will receive personalized technical assistance and up to $10,000 to implement recommended changes, which could include exterior façade and storefront design improvements along with personalized assistance to boost the business’s image and operations.
The State of Wisconsin Downtowns 2025 Trends Report
A new report on the state of Wisconsin’s downtowns puts a spotlight on the 37 current and four aspiring Main Street districts across the state. The report showcases many successes and offers a look behind the scenes at how it was developed.
Supporting communities in identifying the economic benefits of outdoor recreation
Discover how Wisconsin’s outdoor recreation, trails, lakes, and parks drive tourism, support economic growth, and provide measurable community development benefits.
Seeing your downtown with fresh eyes: How communities can rethink their visitor assets
The most powerful visitor assets are often hiding in plain sight, overlooked not because they lack value but because the community has grown so accustomed to them.
Supporting Small Businesses Across Wisconsin
Less than a year into the grant period, awardees have passed nearly $1.5 million in grant funds on to small businesses through a variety of unique programs that were specifically designed to meet each community’s business needs.
Fostering a community mindset grounded in possibility and growth
Four leaders who played key roles in moving contentious projects forward in their communities shared their advice in a panel discussion titled “Fostering a Community Mindset Grounded in Possibility and Growth.” at the 2025 Wisconsin Economic Summit held in mid-October.
The power of storytelling in downtown development
In the world of downtown revitalization and community development, data and dollars matter—but stories are what stick. Storytelling is more than a marketing tool; it’s a strategic asset for [...]
Building stronger communities through school partnerships
This article highlights some case studies and projects resulting from school district partnerships that may inspire local opportunities.
Fueling a “flywheel” of economic prosperity
Strategic investments are helping Wisconsin communities to build momentum, creating a cascade of related economic development projects that fuel long-term growth and community involvement.
Ingredients of vibrant outdoor dining
A comprehensive look at effective strategies businesses and communities can use to turn alleys, sidewalks, vacant lots, and even parking spaces into compelling spaces.
Storefront display and retail merchandising best practices
Understanding customer psychology and designing for the customer experience is one of the most effective investments a business can make.
Supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses on Main Street
The presence of successful businesses tends to foster other successful businesses, as entrepreneurs see the district as a desirable business address and increased foot traffic provides a built-in customer base for new establishments.
