Transforming problem properties into economic opportunity
First impressions are important, and the face of your downtown has a huge impact on perceptions. If a district looks well cared for and active, people see it as vibrant and prosperous, encouraging customers to shop and businesses to invest. Read More
The eyes have it: Grab more exposure with a polished website
Your organization’s website is like a front door. Make it inviting and easy to use, and people will come inside and look around. Neglect it and, chances are, they’ll cruise along to the next place. Read More
Building codes on Main Street
Historic buildings may need to meet building codes similar to those required in new construction when a change of occupancy occurs, or when substantial renovations are planned. Read More
Welcome more visitors downtown at night
Providing a safe and comfortable place to walk increases the likelihood that downtown residents and visitors will explore more of the district and patronize new businesses. Read More
Tips and trends power community farmers market success
Farmers markets are a popular way to bring people together to buy fresh produce and explore everything downtown has to offer. They also support local entrepreneurship that contributes to a downtown’s future business success. Read More
The State of Historic Preservation Today
Today across Wisconsin, we see tiny rural villages, small quaint towns, and larger cities all with thriving downtowns. Even the smallest of our communities have murals, public art, farmers markets, outdoor concerts, breweries, wineries, boutiques, B&Bs and more. Read More
WEDC grants power downtown development, community investment
CDI Grants provide up to $250,000, or 25% of eligible project costs, for construction, renovation and other physical improvements for projects that incorporate a commercial element. Read More
Building stronger communities through brownfield redevelopment
Communities may experience many environmental, social and economic benefits from brownfield redevelopment by removing health hazards, removing blight through renovating abandoned buildings and removal of derelict structures, and preserving historical landmarks. Read More
Eventful: Tips and trends help power downtown event planning
The COVID-19 pandemic foisted many dizzying changes on locally owned businesses, including temporary and permanent closures, changing entrepreneur demographics, labor market shifts and a switch to online sales. One benefit of coordinating a long-standing program such as Wisconsin Main Street (celebrating its 35th year in 2022) is the ability to explore trends over time. Read More
Tapping into trends in downtown entrepreneurship
The COVID-19 pandemic foisted many dizzying changes on locally owned businesses, including temporary and permanent closures, changing entrepreneur demographics, labor market shifts and a switch to online sales. One benefit of coordinating a long-standing program such as Wisconsin Main Street (celebrating its 35th year in 2022) is the ability to explore trends over time. Read More
Fighting cabin fever by creating winter fun downtown
Wisconsin winters can seem long, dark and cold. The temptation is strong to hunker down and wait it out. But just because the days are short and frigid, there’s no reason your customers need to be prisoners in their own homes. You can ward off cabin fever by uncovering the fun side of winter right in your own downtown. Read More
Financial incentives for code improvements
Just like any vehicle, all buildings—whether they are residential or commercial, new or existing—require regular maintenance. Read More