Educational Sessions: Sunday, April 1

8:30 - 10:30 a.m.: Introduction to Organization

This session explains the use of the Four-Point Main Street Approach and the program’s underlying principles; provides information on building a broad-based coalition; describes roles and responsibilities for board, committee members, and staff; and defines the appropriate organizational structure for the program. How does the Main Street organization present itself to the public, gain and keep volunteers, and create viable funding strategies for the program? All of these activities are the work of the Organization Committee. Learn the roles and responsibilities of Organization Committee members and the role staff plays in the committee’s work.

10:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.: Introduction to Economic Restructuring

The primary responsibility of a Main Street economic restructuring committee is to reverse the cycle of disinvestment by increasing investment in infrastructure, property, and businesses. Improving the commercial dynamics of your Main Street requires activities such as retail market analysis, business and real estate development, financial incentive programs, and planning. We’ll teach you about current economic trends and share successful economic restructuring case studies. CM | 1.25

1:30 - 2:45 p.m.: Introduction to Promotion

An important part of revitalizing your district is changing public perceptions of the area and using special events and business promotions to bring people back to the community. Learn how to identify your target audience, produce promotions that appeal to them, and build awareness about what your commercial district has to offer. Find out how to create a balanced calendar of events and glean ideas for image-building promotions and festivals that other Main Street programs have found successful.

2:00 - 5:00 p.m.: Dessert and Advanced Topics: An Interactive Exchange for Seasoned Main Street Managers

Kick off the conference Sunday afternoon with an exciting peer-to-peer network exchange of advanced topics specifically designed to strengthen the leadership of Main Street Managers with more than 5 years experience. Enjoy delightful desserts and drinks in a progressive style of Baltimore venues near the Conference hotel while learning new and innovative leadership strategies among other seasoned managers going through similar challenges and opportunities.
Seats are limited, so advanced registration is required

3:00 - 4:15 p.m.: Introduction to Design

Design improvements show the public that positive change is happening. Come to this session and get a firm grounding in the fundamental design goals and strategies used to bring life back to the pedestrian-oriented commercial district. Find out how to get visual improvements rolling, how to put together a first-year work plan, and how to assign roles and responsibilities to staff and committee members. CM | 1.25

4:30-5:30 p.m.: New Attendee Orientation

If this is your first conference or if you are returning after a couple of years away, join us for this Sunday afternoon orientation session so we can help you get the most from the National Main Streets Conference and connect you with other newcomers right from the start.