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.
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.
2024 Community Transformation Workshop in Nevada, Iowa. Photo by KandE Productions
The future of Main Street learning is almost here, and it starts with a bold new chapter. We’re excited to share that the Main Street America Institute (MSAI) is evolving to become the Main Street America Academy. This change is more than just a rebrand. It’s a complete reimagining of how we support Main Street leaders and practitioners across the country.
A New Point-Based Certification Pathway — Advance toward the refreshed Main Street Revitalization Professional (MSARP) credential with a tiered certification journey that honors both what you know and what you do.
Role-Based Learning Journeys — The Academy offers curated learning experiences designed to meet you where you are and support your unique contributions. We’re launching our inaugural Local Main Street Leader journey this summer, with additional role-specific pathways coming soon!
Learn Your Way — Explore self-paced modules, sign up for webinars, join live, instructor-led courses, and learn about upcoming in-person workshops — all designed to meet you where you are and move you forward.
Custom Built Learning Experience — Say goodbye to clunky logins and disconnected platforms. The new Main Street America Academy is powered by a custom-designed learning management system built exclusively for Main Street professionals. The best part? It lives right on the Main Street America website.
The Main Street America Academy will be your go-to destination for learning experiences that are practical, engaging, and built to grow with you. Whether you’re new to the field or decades into your journey, the Academy offers a clear path forward — with resources, recognition, and relationships to power your progress.
This is more than a learning platform — it’s the professional development engine of the Main Street movement.
Keep an eye on your inbox for the full launch this July, and your invitation to join us in this new era of future-focused, educational experiences made for Main Street.