An enormous amount of planning and effort goes into staging a successful community event, and the Wisconsin Main Street staff is available to help evaluate an event’s effectiveness and point the way toward improvements. Read More

Wisconsin Main Street hosted its first Downtown Pitch Contest in June, inviting entrepreneurs from more than 100 Main Street and Connect Communities districts to share ideas for business concepts or expansions to meet the needs of local customers, enhance their district, and support and sustain local businesses. Read More

With its good schools, low crime rates and natural wonders, Wisconsin is a family-friendly place—but still, only a handful of downtowns have what it takes to entertain children and their parents for an afternoon. Read More

Wisconsin is blessed with historic buildings, districts and communities. Many communities have embraced this history and made a concerted effort to preserve these irreplaceable treasures, resulting in beautiful historic commercial districts and residential neighborhoods. Read More

As Main Street staff members, we are often asked to recommend Wisconsin destinations that are unique, fun and exciting. Read More

Wisconsin has many destinations with perfect amenities for a “girls’ getaway” weekend—but only a few that truly offer the whole package. Read More

Farmers markets are important to communities in many ways. They are a critical component in rebuilding local food economies. They provide a cost-effective, retail sales opportunity for local food producers, and often for artisan businesses as well. And they are a beloved social gathering place for many Wisconsinites. Read More

One of the most challenging aspects of managing an organization is maintaining focus on the organization’s core mission in a world of ever-increasing distractions. A seemingly infinite number of worthy causes, great ideas and event inspirations arise on a daily basis, presenting the temptation to pursue them. Read More

During the COVID-19 pandemic so many local businesses have had to adapt their business plan to adhere to safety guidelines and to best reach their customers. In fall of 2020, WEDC created the We’re All Innovating Contest to recognize and promote the creative ways local startups and small businesses have adapted to the recent challenges. Among the winners were multiple businesses in both Wisconsin Main Street and Connect Communities. These businesses were recognized for the We’re All Innovating Contest based on business innovations, adapting services and adapting technology. Read More

As we enter a new year, each of the stakeholder groups that are responsible for downtown revitalization have an opportunity to reflect on the gifts of 2020 and resolve to make changes that will make your organization and/or business more prosperous and effective in the coming year. Read More

Following last month’s focus on diversity and inclusion in all aspects of the Main Street approach, this month’s blog post will explore how the design of façades, storefronts and business signage within Main Street districts can incorporate cultural diversity and expression. Read More