We are excited to announce that 862 Main Street programs across the country have earned Accredited status, Main Street America’s top level of recognition. This elite designation signifies a strong commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization through the effective application of the Main Street Approach™. We also applaud the 412 programs that have been designated as Main Street America Affiliates this year. These programs have created meaningful improvements in their communities and are on the pathway to achieving even more significant economic, quality of life, and organizational improvements in their downtowns.

In 2022, Main Street America programs generated $6.2 billion in local reinvestment, helped open 7,657 net new businesses, facilitated the creation of 29,174 net new jobs, catalyzed the rehabilitation of 10,688 historic buildings, and leveraged 1,528,535 volunteer hours. On average, for every dollar that a Main Street program spent to support their operations, it generated $24.07 of new investment back into their downtown communities.*

“We are very proud to acknowledge this year’s 1,274 Accredited and Affiliate programs, and their steadfast dedication to nurture economically and culturally vibrant downtown districts,” said Hannah White, Interim President & CEO of Main Street America. “The increase in the size and impact of our network speaks volumes to the power of the Main Street movement to respond to the needs of local communities and drive innovative solutions.”

Collectively, 2 million people live or work within the boundaries of designated Main Street America districts. An estimated workforce of 1.1 million people contribute their skills and expertise to advancing the missions of these historic downtowns and commercial corridors. 

Statewide, countywide, and citywide Coordinating Programs evaluate, select, and recommend qualifying communities to Main Street America on an annual basis. To qualify for Accreditation status, communities must meet a set of rigorous standards that include commitments to building grassroots revitalization programs, fostering strong public-private partnerships, nurturing economic opportunity for small businesses and entrepreneurs, and actively preserving historic places, spaces, and cultural assets. Learn more about Main Street America designation here.

Click on the image below or here to explore all the 2023 Accredited and Affiliate Main Street America communities across the Main Street Network.

*These data are based on reports gathered from 1,200 Main Street America programs, accounting for their work performed from January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022.

SnowShoe, a Main Street America Allied Member, is this quarter's Main Spotlight advertiser. For more information about what they do to support Main Street organizations, click here >