Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors
Main Street Accelerator is an action-oriented leadership development program focused on helping communities better their downtown by implementing a specific project, such as launching a new initiative or addressing a challenge.


By the end of the Accelerator program, each community will have a completed project plan and the opportunity to receive grant funding to execute the project.

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.

Application Deadline: November 21, 2025

Learn more about Main Street Accelerator

If you have any questions about the application process or your project, please contact Savannah Blantz, Programs Coordinator, at savannah@ctmainstreet.org.

January 2026 Cohort Main Street Accelerator Application

Point of Contact Information

This person is the team lead.
Your Name(Required)

Project Team Information

Each team must consist of 3–6 individuals who will actively participate throughout the program and project implementation. At least one team member must be a paid professional with decision-making authority (e.g., Main Street manager, economic development director). All team members must sign a pledge of participation to be officially accepted into the program. See details more details at the end of this application.

Person #2

Person #3

Person #4

Person #5

Person #6

Project Overview

Tell us about the focus of your project or the challenge you want to address in Main Street Accelerator. We understand that your responses below are initial ideas and that your project may change over time.
What is the focus of the project…(Required)
Is this challenge or project outlined in an existing strategic plan or other type of plan?(Required)
Are there funds earmarked or set aside to tackle this problem or project?(Required)
Preferred Availability(Required)

Time Commitment

Participants should expect to dedicate approximately 5 to 8 hours per month, which includes monthly virtual classes, local team meetings, project work, and coaching sessions. View Program Schedule
Check the box below to confirm that you have reviewed the program schedule.(Required)

Letters of Support

At least one letter of support is required. If the team lead is a municipal entity, at least one letter of support must come from the Chief Elected Official (such as the Mayor, Town Manager, or First Selectman). If the team lead is a nonprofit organization, the letter must be from the Board Chair or the Chief Elected Official of the municipality in which the organization is based. Additional letters of support may be attached and submitted if desired.
Max. file size: 256 MB.
Max. file size: 256 MB.
Max. file size: 256 MB.
Max. file size: 256 MB.

Participant Pledge

I understand that official acceptance into the program is contingent upon each team member signing the Main Street Accelerator Participant Pledge. If your team is selected to participate, each team member will receive a digital copy of the pledge via email that must be signed and returned by December 5, 2025.
View Main Street Accelerator Participant Pledge
Check the box to indicate your understanding(Required)

About Connecticut Main Street Center

CMSC is the expert resource for developing and sustaining vibrant downtowns that fuel our state’s prosperity. Our mission is to assess, educate, convene, and advocate to develop and grow our traditional downtowns, village centers, and urban mixed-use neighborhoods. We provide education and training, resources and technical assistance, and function as the statewide champion for downtowns and Main Streets of all sizes.

CMSC is supported by its Founding Partners, Eversource Energy and the Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD). CMSC is also supported by its Growth Partners, UIL Holdings and the State Historic Preservation Office. More information is available at www.ctmainstreet.org. 

With thanks to our Funders:

connecticut
eversource
connecticut

CMSC is a member or serves on the board of:

eversource
eversource
eversource
eversource
eversource
eversource

Connecticut Main Street Center

P.O. Box 270
Hartford, CT 06141
860.280.2337

© Connecticut Main Street Center 
P.O. Box 270, Hartford, CT 06141 | 860.280.2337

Privacy Policy