The Main Street Accelerator is a six-month program that helps Connecticut communities turn great downtown ideas into real projects. Whether you’re improving public space, creating a community gathering place, supporting local businesses, or launching another small-scale revitalization effort, the Accelerator provides the training, coaching, and resources needed to move from idea to action.
Why Downtowns Matter
Downtowns are more than business districts. They are the heart of a community, serving as centers of commerce, culture, connection, and local identity. Strong downtowns attract visitors, support small businesses, create jobs, and foster vibrant places where people want to live, work, and gather.
At the Connecticut Main Street Center, our mission is to support the revitalization of downtown and neighborhood commercial districts across Connecticut by helping communities create sustainable economic growth, preserve local character, and build stronger, more resilient places. The Main Street Accelerator is one way we invest directly in local leaders and community-driven projects that make a visible impact.
“Through the Main Street Accelerator, we were able to turn our vision for Deep River’s Banner Program into a reality. The banners fit right into the town’s fabric, and the community response has been overwhelmingly positive, everyone seems to love them. The program’s guidance, support, and resources helped us create a project that celebrates local heroes and strengthens community pride.”
— Deep River Main Street Visionaries
How It Works
Over six months, participating teams work with experienced downtown revitalization professionals to develop and advance a community project. Participants receive:
- Monthly training sessions on Main Street revitalization and project planning
- One-on-one coaching and expert guidance
- Practical tools, templates, and resources
- Opportunities to learn alongside other Connecticut communities
- Hands-on support to move a project from concept to implementation
Through a combination of training, technical assistance, peer learning, and coaching, communities gain the tools and confidence needed to move projects from concept to reality.
Cost & Funding
There is no cost to participate. The program is fully funded, making it accessible to communities of all sizes.
Teams that successfully complete the program, meet participation requirements, and fulfill program expectations may be eligible for a $2,500 implementation grant to help bring their project to life and create meaningful improvements downtown.
Why Join?
Many communities have great ideas but lack the time, expertise, or resources to move them forward. The Main Street Accelerator helps bridge that gap by building local leadership, strengthening partnerships, and providing a clear path from planning to implementation.
Participants leave with a stronger team, practical project development skills, a completed action plan, and the opportunity to secure funding that can help turn their vision into reality.
Communities across Connecticut have already seen the impact of participating in the Accelerator.
“The Accelerator project did catalyze more activations at the Arcade Mall and encouraged us to release the Business Retention & Recruitment Manager role that we are now seeking candidates to fill. Overall, the experience of the Accelerator program and the resources of the grant and technical assistance were game changers for the Bridgeport DSSD.”
— Bridgeport Downtown Special Services District
From revitalizing public spaces and celebrating community identity to strengthening local business ecosystems, the Main Street Accelerator helps communities build momentum and create visible, lasting change in their downtowns.
Ready to make a difference in your downtown?
View the FAQs below and click the link to apply!
Questions? Email Ani Chaghatzbanian, Programs Manager, or call her at 860-665-4174 to discuss whether this program is right for you.
