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Teaching People to Cultivate Thriving Downtowns

Teaching people to cultivate thriving downtowns.

Our education and training programs teach people about the six core components of a healthy downtown and inspire them to take action in their own communities. See what attendees have to say about our webinars, online and in-person events.

  • “CMSC is leading the way in CT to reinvigorate participating “downtowns” by providing technical “placemaking” assistance, connecting its partnerships with cities and towns to appropriate economic and community development resources, support and showcase development opportunities, promote new ideas and encourage and inform best practices.”

    Carolyn Gonzalez, Capital for Change
    CMSC 2020 Corporate Investor
  • “Our partnership with CMSC is a no-brainer, as we have a shared commitment to building solid foundations in our communities. Vibrant main street centers that feature modern housing and transportation options as well as local, unique businesses are crucial to building strong communities where members can flourish.”

    Susan Kiddy, Windsor Federal
    CMSC 2020 Corporate Investor
  • “We have a vision for what our Main Street can be.  Knowing that Connecticut Main Street Center shares that vision and can point us to the resources needed to bring that vision to life has been invaluable. Their enthusiasm and support has been just what we needed.”

    Christopher Kervick
    First Selectman, Town of Windsor Locks
  • “Active Town Centers are the foundational makeup of New England communities. CT Main St Center has been a fabulous resource we’ve grown to rely on for advocacy and vision as we strive for continued activity and investment in our beautiful Town Center.”

    Tim Ryan
    Economic Development Specialist,
    Town of Wallingford
  • “Thank you and your staff for working so hard to help us all get through this mess of a time we find ourselves in! It is very much noticed and appreciated!”

    Bob Mills, referring to CMSC’s assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic
    President, Norwich Community Development Corporation
  • “I thought the presentation was dynamic; so many useful ideas even for a rural town like Goshen, CT. Can’t wait to share with my colleagues on Goshen Housing Trust and Goshen Business Circle. Thank you!”

    Dawn W. commenting on our webinar, FIRST — NEXT — LATER: Safeguarding Small Business During the Pandemic, featuring Kennedy Smith of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, one of the nation’s foremost experts on commercial district revitalization and business development. Dawn serves as Vice President of the Goshen Housing Trust, and Goshen Business Circle, Director at large.
  • “This was the best Main Street program I have attended in terms of practical, on the ground information that can directly impact how we do our work – great job everybody! I feel like I have my perspective widened and really learned a lot.”

    Retail in the Age of Disruption Attendee Feedback, October 2019
  • “I must say that not only was the awards event inspiring but the energy displayed by your total group of staff and sponsors has made me feel more passionate about our community and state. Thanks again for all and for reigniting a tired volunteer!”

    Joseph Hurst, President, Norfolk Foundation
  • “I just wanted to drop you a note regarding how much I enjoyed yesterday’s seminar. The speakers, format, presentations and content was excellent. In speaking with others, this seemed to be the consensus. Nicely done!”

    Hidden in Plain Sight Summit Attendee, March 2019
    See what everyone’s talking about. 

    In addition to our educational programming, we also offer customized guidance to our members,
    and specialized in-depth assistance to communities. 


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