Have questions about Main Street America membership? We have answers! Peruse frequently asked questions below.
Do I have to be an official Main Street program to join Main Street America?
We have membership opportunities for anyone interested in joining the Main Street movement, from passionate individuals looking to get involved to impact-driven organizations leading revitalization efforts.
Which membership type is right for me?
Great question! Let’s find the membership that’s right for you:
- I’m with a nationally designated Main Street America program — The Community Membership is the best option for you.
- I’m an organization, municipality, or individual interested in getting started with Main Street or looking for helpful resources — Join with the General Membership.
- I’m a consultant or company that provides goods or services to downtown revitalization organizations — We invite you to sign up with an Allied Membership.
- I’m an individual who is passionate about Main Streets and wants to stay connected — Join the movement with the Friends of Main Street Membership.
If I join with the Community Membership, do I automatically become a designated Main Street America program?
Membership is a first step towards national designation through Main Street America. You’ll also need to participate in regular community evaluation assessments through Main Street America and/or your Coordinating Program. Learn more about national designation and familiarize yourself with our Community Evaluation Framework here.
As a member, am I entitled to use the “Main Street” name?
The National Trust for Historic Preservation® owns the trademark for the phrase “Main Street” as it applies to the revitalization of traditional and historic commercial districts. Local organizations may use the name only if they meet an established set of criteria and have been designated by their Coordinating Program or Main Street America. For more information, please refer to our Name Use Policy.
How long is my membership term?
Your membership is active for one year and extends to the end of your anniversary month. For example, if you became a member on October 10, 2025, your membership will expire on October 31, 2026.
How do I renew my membership?
Renewing your Main Street membership is easy! You’ll receive a membership renewal notification via email 90 days before your renewal date. Keep an eye out for this email and follow the renewal instructions.
Additionally, you can view and renew your membership through the Member Hub, a virtual space where you can manage your account, connect with peers, and access benefits. While logged in, simply click on the “Membership” section located in the lefthand navigation, select “Membership & Payments,” and follow the prompts for the membership you’d like to renew.
How do I submit my membership dues?
You can submit your initial or renewal membership dues two ways:
1. Online through our secure payment processor — This is the quickest and easiest way submit your dues. For new members, get started here. Existing members, log into the Member Hub and click on “Memberships” in the left sidebar.
2. Pay via check — If you prefer to submit your dues via check, please get started with the online join or renew form, then mail your check to:
National Main Street Center
Attn: Membership
53 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 350
Chicago, IL 60604
Is there a grace period for expired memberships?
We get it: sometimes membership renewals get lost in the hustle and bustle of doing this important work. We’re pleased to provide a 90-day grace period that allows you to maintain access to your membership benefits while you work towards completing your renewal.
I’m a new director of a Main Street program and I may not know the status of our membership – how do I get started?
Welcome! Please email us so we can update our records and get you set up in the Member Hub. We’ll be happy to check your program’s membership status and help get you squared away with any renewals, too.
Our contact information has changed – what should I do?
Log in to the Member Hub to update contact information for your organization or yourself. Click here or the “Member Login” button at the top of this page to get started.
Where can I find my member number?
Your member number is at your fingertips anytime in your Member Hub dashboard. You can also find it listed on your membership renewal reminders and payment confirmation emails.
I’m the primary account holder for my membership – can I share my benefits with other members of my organization?
Yes! As the primary account holder, you can share your membership benefits with your staff, board and committee members, and volunteers by adding them as organizational contacts. Visit the Member Hub to get started and manage organization contacts anytime.
I still have questions – what should I do?
Please email membership@mainstreet.org or call 312−610−5613.