Places blog: Encourage shopping small
While “shop local” campaigns can become controversial, seeming to discourage tourists and/or exclude franchises and other locally operated businesses, shopping small is a strategy that is hard to oppose. Consider the following unique strategies to encourage and recognize customers that make the effort to shop small. Read More
Places blog: Mentors and business partners
Another strategy for ensuring the success of new businesses to your downtown district is to connect them with established mentors. Connecting businesses with mentors that can help them understand the local market, capitalize on or prepare for seasonal changes or major events, and most effectively market to key customer groups can substantially increase their chance of success. Read More
Places blog: Small business support and funding
One constant limitation for many small businesses is a shortage of capital for startup, inventory and expansion. Fortunately, there are many tools available today to allow local investors to fund businesses that they support. Read More
When to end an event that isn’t working
Many communities have traditional events they continue to hold because that is what they have always done—even if it no longer serves a specific purpose for the host organization nor provides a defined benefit for the community. Find key questions to consider when thinking about the future of community events. Read More
Tips and tricks on getting attendees to take surveys and give feedback
Surveys are a vital component in evaluating your events. Here are some tips and tricks for acquiring the best survey results. Read More
The importance of evaluating your event
Events and promotions are an important part of what make your downtown a destination. However, it is important that event hosts have a regular process for reviewing what went well and what could be improved. Read More
Building additions in historic commercial districts
With additions to the side, rear or top of buildings, it is very important that the new portion does not physically or visually damage the existing building. Any new addition should take design cues from the original building style. Read More
Construction of new standalone developments in historic commercial districts
Proper design strategies for standalone developments on larger vacant lots, typically on the edges of district. Read More
New infill construction in historic commercial districts
The design of a new infill building, particularly its front façade, is a special challenge. It should be designed to look appropriate and compatible with surrounding buildings, yet still look like it was built today. Read More
New construction in historic commercial districts
Communities large and small across Wisconsin are seeing a building boom of late, largely due to a need for more housing. Interjecting new buildings within a cohesive district of already-built structures is a sensitive design issue. Read More
Anatomy of a Wisconsin Main Street Makeover
Wondering what it takes for a successful Wisconsin Main Street Makeover? From the initial application to the final unveiling, this post covers all the moving parts of the Wisconsin Main Street Program's annual event. Read More
Business success in the 21st century
The recent survey found that new business starts in Wisconsin downtowns reached a high-water mark in 2018. With new businesses of all types were cropping up in Wisconsin's downtown, here's how a few found success. Read More