Main Street America Affiliate™ status is for programs, districts, or communities that are interested in learning more about the Main Street model and would like to tap into the national network’s strategies and resources, as well as for those who do not have the capacity, or who are not eligible for higher levels of Main Street America designation.
In Delaware, business districts statewide are invited to learn strategies for downtown revitalization and business development so that growth in their commercial district is “by choice” and not “by chance.” The Commercial District Affiliate” (CDA) is a designation for communities that choose to implement downtown revitalization strategies similar to designated Main Street programs, but on a smaller scale. Some of these towns are “testing the waters” as they consider future Main Street designation. We work with these communities to build strategies that will encourage partnership-development, new funding opportunities, and increased opportunities for small businesses.
What are the Benefits of being a Delaware Commercial District Affiliate?
CDA towns may participate in Downtown Delaware’s group training activities led by state and national downtown development experts. Affiliates are in the “network” to learn about best practices in the field of revitalization, to work with a downtown business development expert, and to trade best practices with peers from around the state, particularly in the area of business development. Many of Delaware’s CDA’s are direct beneficiaries of USDA grant-related activities.
Ultimately, CDA’s are offered an opportunity to plan proactively for a vibrant, synergistic downtown commercial business district based on the Four Point Main Street model.
“Commercial District Affliates”:
Lincoln/Union Business District (West Side Wilmington)
Wilmington: Old Brandywine Village Inc.
ASPIRING COMMUNITIES
Downtown Delaware’s newest tier is the “Aspiring” Community tier. The “Aspiring” tier is for communities just starting a downtown revitalization effort and wish to learn more about using the Main Street Approach®. This exploratory level is for communities that do not wish to immediately become an Affiliate and for those who wish to apply the Main Street Approach® in a non-traditional commercial setting, yet they want to receive notification of workshops and conferences sponsored by Downtown Delaware. Participation at the Aspiring level does not guarantee selection in the future as an Affiliate community, but it does help communities to explore the revitalization process and assess resources and human/financial capacity required to more fully engage in the process. Interested communities may join by completing a brief application form.
“Aspiring” Communities: