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.
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The Main Street America Institute is excited to offer a special Intro to Grant Writing webinar series! In partnership with Grant Ready Kentucky, this four-part virtual webinar series covers every stage of the grant-seeking process — from assessing your grant readiness and building strong partnerships to crafting compelling proposals and creating actionable project plans. Led by expert instructor and grant writing professional Melissa Sesco Vermillion, GPC, MBA, each session is packed with practical tips, real-world examples, and interactive learning to boost your confidence and skills.
Whether you’re new to grant writing or seeking to sharpen your expertise, you’ll gain the tools and insights needed to secure funding and drive your mission forward. Register now and join us in February to turn your grant-writing goals into funded realities!
Registration for the full series or individual sessions is available.
Main Street America members receive a discount!
© studioroman
Session 1: Is Your Organization Grant-Ready?
Thursday, February 6
3:00 p.m. — 5:00 p.m. ET
Learn how to assess your organization’s grant-readiness and build a solid foundation for successful funding applications.
© pixdeluxe/Getty Images Signature
Session 2: Find Success with Collaboration
Thursday, February 13
3:00 p.m. — 5:00 p.m. ET
Gain practical strategies for building strong collaborations for successful grant applications.
© PeopleImages/Getty Images Signature
Session 3: How to Define the Problem
Thursday, February 20
3:00 p.m. — 5:00 p.m. ET
Tips to strengthen your grant proposals and make your organization’s mission stand out.
© iJeab
Session 4: Turning Ideas into Actionable Outcomes
Thursday, February 27
3:00 p.m. — 5:00 p.m. ET
Discover how to demonstrate measurable impact and turn your project’s vision into reality.
Instructor: Melissa Sesco Vermillion has extensive experience with state and federal grant writing as well as a particular interest in assisting rural nonprofits and communities achieve their goals. She has successfully written grant applications securing over $50 million in grant funding from public and private funders, and serves as Chief Strategy Officer at Grant Ready Kentucky.
Pricing:
Who Should Participate: This series is ideal for revitalization professionals and leaders in management positions at the local, city-wide, or state level in organizations engaged in the fields of community revitalization and economic development.
Registration: Registration is open! Secure your spot for the full series and individual sessions >
Format: A four-part live webinar series designed to guide Main Street leaders and place professionals through every stage of the grant-seeking process. Participation in the full series is recommended but not required.
Credit: Completion of the full Intro to Grant Writing Series (all four webinars) counts toward MSAI’s new certification pathway. This means that both new and current MSAI participants can receive credit toward certification. Learn more >
Full Details: Complete course descriptions, policies, and more are available here >
The Intro to Grant Writing webinar series is an incredible value and opportunity. Similar grant-readiness workshops are typically priced at $1000 or more. Thanks to our partnership with Grant Ready Kentucky, you can gain the tools and insights needed to secure funding and drive your mission forward at an unbeatable price.
Questions? Email msai@mainstreet.org
Strategic and consistent advocacy is key to growing and sustaining your local program. Whether you’re new to advocacy or strengthening existing efforts, Advocating for Your Local Main Street Budget provides the tools and strategies you need to champion your program with confidence. Register for this transformative three-part, live instructor-led course today and start honing your advocacy skills on March 17!
Learn how to effectively make your case to local decision-makers. Photo by Downtown Lansing Inc.
From managing projects to supporting the people who are the heart of your efforts, sustainability is a crucial consideration for building a durable Main Street program. The Main Street America Academy is here to help! This month, we invite you to focus on sustainability with this curated collection of learning opportunities and resources.
Bardstown, Kentucky. Photo by Grizzly Media
Main Street America and American Express® are helping support local communities through the Amex Shop Small Grants Program. Beginning November 29, eligible small business owners can apply to receive up to $20,000 in funding.
