Marion, Iowa © Tasha Sams
We work in collaboration with thousands of local partners and grassroots leaders across the nation who share our commitment to advancing shared prosperity, creating resilient economies, and improving quality of life.
Emporia, Kansas © Emporia Main Street
Made up of small towns, mid-sized communities, and urban commercial districts, the thousands of organizations, individuals, volunteers, and local leaders that make up Main Street America™ represent the broad diversity that makes this country so unique.
Chicago, Illinois © Main Street America
Looking for strategies and tools to support you in your work? Delve into the Main Street Resource Center and explore a wide range of resources including our extensive Knowledge Hub, professional development opportunities, field service offerings, advocacy support, and more!
Waterloo, Iowa © Main Street Waterloo
Your one-stop-shop for all the latest stories, news, events, and opportunities – including grants and funding programs – across Main Street.
Kendall Whittier — Tulsa, Oklahoma © Kendall Whittier Main Street
Join us in our work to advance shared prosperity, create strong economies, and improve quality of life in downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts.
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Each year, Main Street America recognizes exceptional Main Street communities whose successes serve as a model for comprehensive, preservation-based commercial district revitalization with the Great American Main Street Award. Since the award's inception in 1995, over 100 Main Street programs have been honored. Will YOUR community be next?
Eligibility: All Accredited Main Street America programs, with an active Main Street membership and that have not previously won.
Application: Candidates must submit a complete application through the online portal and application fee by Friday, August 4 at 11:59pm CT. A preview of the application, supplemental document samples and templates, and more are available on our website. Access application resources here >
Evaluation: Winners are selected from a nationwide pool of applicants by a jury of Main Street professionals and leaders in the fields of community and economic development and historic preservation. Learn more about selection criteria >
Accolades: Semi-finalists will be promoted through MSA’s digital channels. Finalists will also receive a promotional video, media support, profiles on the MSA website, and recognition at a ceremony at the 2024 Main Street Now Conference.
Don't miss the chance to vie for this prestigious award:
Submit your application by Friday, August 4 at 11:59pm CT!
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The 2024 Application Webinar is Available On-Demand
Learn more about GAMSA, the application, and key dates. Hear insights from Hannah Davis, Executive Director at Downtown Florence Main Street, a 2023 GAMSA winner. Registration is required for accessing the recording.
Questions? Contact Steve Amraen at 312.610.5609 or gamsa@mainstreet.org.
From interactive self-paced courses and immersive in-person workshops, the Academy offers practical, engaging, and flexible learning experiences designed to help you grow your impact, sharpen your skills, and lead with confidence. We invite you to join us as we embark on this bold new chapter—start exploring the Academy today!
Did you know that many of the staff members at Main Street America have experience working for local Main Street programs? We asked them about their stories and the ways their experiences shape the work they do at the national level.
Join us for encore presentations of attendee-favorite sessions from the 2025 Main Street Now Conference, offering fresh perspectives on the topics that matter most to Main Street leaders.
