The Iowa Economic Development Authority will host virtual application workshops for communities interested in applying for Main Street Iowa. The workshops, which will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Jan. 31 and Feb. 5, will guide communities through the Main Street Approach and offer strategies on the competitive application process.

The Main Street Iowa program works with select communities to develop their downtown areas with building improvement projects, new business creation and volunteer support for revitalization efforts. Towns that are selected can receive up to $120,000 in “technical assistance and training” during the startup phase and an average annual investment of $15,000 after that, according to a fact sheet from the program.

To gain access to the 2024 Main Street Iowa application, communities must pre-register five to 10 representatives. It is recommended that attendees review the “Main Street Basics: Main Street Iowa Orientation” video series before the workshop. Interested communities must register in advance for either the Jan. 31 session or the Feb. 5 session.