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Press Release For Immediate Release: September 12, 2023 Media Contact: Christine Schilke Communications & Strategy Director Christine@ctmainstreet.org | 860.280.2356 CMSC Launches New Main Street Accelerator Program New program offers convenient leadership development specific to downtowns combined with opportunity to implement a local project or initiative (Hartford, CT) - Connecticut Main Street Center (CMSC) is launching Main Street Accelerator, a virtual, 6-month program where participants learn and practice the nationally proven Four Point Main Street Approach and apply it to a specific challenge their community is facing. While vibrant downtowns are vital to the social and economic prosperity of our state, they require constant maintenance to thrive, work that often falls to economic development officials, downtown professionals, or even volunteers who may lack the information necessary for robust downtown management. CMSC designed the Main Street Accelerator program to respond to the needs of communities by offering convenient leadership training necessary to cultivate a healthy Main Street district and the opportunity to implement a local initiative in a way that can complement State grant funding programs. The Main Street Accelerator program includes an in-person kick-off event in December and a project showcase at CMSC’s annual Awards Celebration in June. The curriculum is a mix of self-paced online modules, coaching calls and group assignments. Participants will also learn about related sectors they’re likely to interact with via a variety of guest speakers and content provided by organizations such as Sustainable CT and Preservation Connecticut. Main Street Accelerator is a perfect fit for communities with an identified challenge or opportunity that has public support, but needs organization, guidance, and extra attention. Communities that participate in the program will receive a variety of benefits including: • Access to the Main Street Accelerator community platform • Resources and expert advice tailored to their specific project • A project plan template designed for Main Street • Opportunity to receive grant funding to execute the project outlined in their project plan CMSC encourages anyone interested in the program to attend our free, online information session on September 21st to learn about the benefits and eligibility requirements of the program. A recording of the event will be sent to all registrants. You can also learn more about the program and download key dates here. ###