Q: Who is eligible to apply for a GAMSA award?

A: The Great American Main Street Awards® competition is open to all National Main Street Programs accredited for at least the two years prior to applying for the award. In other words, to be eligible for the 2010 Awards, you must have been accredited in both 2008 and 2009. At this time, previous winners are ineligible to apply for GAMSA.

Q: How do I know if my program is accredited?

A: Check the official list of National Main Street Programs. You can check the list for both 2008 and 2009 for your program. If you believe you are eligible and have not received an invitation email, please email your name, program name, city, and state to mainstreet@nthp.org. We will attempt to respond to all inquiries within 3 business days.

Q: Is there a cost to apply for the Great American Main Street Awards®?

A: A one-time, non-refundable, application fee of $150 is due with the submission of your Preliminary Application. Payment can be made online (Visa, Master Card, and American Express) or by check. Instructions for submitting payment are included in the online application. Online payments must be received by the Preliminary Application Deadline. If you are mailing a check, it must be post marked by the same deadline. No additional payment is necessary for the Semifinalist Application.

Q: How do I access the application?

A: If you are eligible, email mainstreet@nthp.org to receive a link to the application.

Q: Can I submit a hardcopy of the application instead of submitting it online?

A: No, all preliminary applications must be submitted via our online application.

Q: When is the application due?

Q: How will I know if my application was received?

A: Confirmation of receipt of your preliminary application and semifinalist application will be sent via email within five business days of submission.