Board Spotlight: Local Stories from the Board of Directors
John Mitterholzer, Deshea Agee, Michael Wagler, Chris Wilson, and Mary Helmer Worth share stories from their time at the local level and how those experiences shape their perspectives today.
Jefferson Matters celebrates their 2025 Great American Main Street Award. Photo by BeauMonde Originals/Main Street America
A bustling downtown. Vibrant public art. Thriving businesses. Welcoming public spaces. A renewed sense of community pride. These are just some indicators of outstanding comprehensive, preservation-based commercial district revitalization efforts. If this sounds like your community, then you should consider applying for the 2026 Great American Main Street Awards!
We are accepting applications through Friday, July 11. Tell us your Main Street success story and how you leverage the Main Street Approach to catalyze people-led positive change in your community for the chance to be recognized as a Great American Main Street. Apply now! >
Eligibility: All Accredited Main Street America programs with an active membership, and that have not previously won, are eligible to apply.
Resources: Application materials and selection criteria are available on our website. All interested applicants are invited to join the information webinar featuring a preview of the application and helpful tips on June 4. Access resources and register for the webinar here >
Deadline: Eligible communities are invited to submit completed applications and the application fee of $150 by Friday, July 11, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CDT.
Accolades: Semifinalists are promoted through Main Street America’s digital channels and receive media relations support. Winners will also receive a short documentary film, a plaque, prominent placement on mainstreet.org for two years, and recognition at the 2026 Main Street Now Conference in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Nominate your Main Street program for our movement’s most prestigious honor: Submit your application by Friday, July 11.
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