The Power of Small
Welcome to the 2018 edition of State of Main, the annual publication of Main Street America. Serving as both an annual report and an industry journal, State of Main provides a detailed look back on all that we have accomplished together this year and explores cutting edge ideas and trends in the commercial district revitalization field.
This year’s edition is dedicated to the power of small – how small businesses, small-scale development, and small steps are leading to big things. With articles written by industry experts on topics ranging from the future of retail to Main Street advocacy, the publication is brimming with tools, tips, and strategies that will help you lead a results-oriented revitalization effort.
Articles
By Becky McCray, author of Small Town Rules
There’s no doubt about it, the retail landscape is changing and getting more complex. No longer are there clear boundaries between brick and mortar establishments and e‑commerce, between big boxes and mom & pops. Yet one thing is for certain: Main Street has a unique competitive advantage and it’s up to local leaders and local business owners to understand how to tap into this opportunity.
By Jim Heid, founder of UrbanGreen, and Samantha Beckerman, consultant for small-scale development and affordable housing
Main Street was founded upon the principle that sustainable, comprehensive transformation of a downtown or commercial district doesn’t happen overnight or with one “big fix.” Small-scale development projects and incremental improvements are the key to creating vibrant local economies and distinctive places that will thrive well into the future.
By Renee Kuhlman, Director of Policy Outreach for the National Trust for Historic Preservation
Every day, Main Street directors and their boards advocate for their districts, their local businesses, and their programs. As a result, Main Streeters have developed great advocacy skills as well as trusted relationships with officials at all levels of government. Renee Kuhlman, Director of Policy Outreach, Government Relations and Policy, at the National Trust for Historic Preservation offers examples of where advocacy for Main Street has recently made a difference as well as resources on how to get involved.
By Norma Ramirez de Miess, Vice President of Field Services, Downtowns
We all know strong leadership when we see it, but how do we define it? While there may not be a one-size-fits-all Main Street leader, there are common characteristics among programs and communities leading successful revitalization efforts. Norma Ramirez de Miess, Senior Program Manager and Director of Leadership Development, highlights five of these key attributes, and shares insights and examples from Main Street leaders across the nation on what it takes to lead effectively.
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Nicole Fleetwood and McKinzie Hodges, Scratch Made Bakery
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Katie Pinard and Michael Macomber, Elements: Coffee Books Beer
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Ebenezer Akakpo, Akakpo Design Group & Maine Culture
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Janet Hurn, Future Ready Consulting
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Cincinnati, Ohio © Janet Hurn
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© Ketut Subiyanto
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