About WMSA

The Wisconsin Main Street Alliance, hereafter referred to as the Alliance, was formed during 2005 with assistance from the National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP) National Main Street Center (NMSC). Two NMSC Staff members, held two, two-day organization and planning meetings with volunteer representatives from several communities that participate in the Wisconsin Main Street Program (WMSP).

Even though the WMSP had a proven and documented track record of being an extremely effective economic development tool, program funding and staff cuts in recent years had been substantial.

Main Street advocacy groups had formed in several states prior to 2005 and case studies of the accomplishments of these organizations were reviewed. The January 2005 issue of MainStreet News the monthly journal of the NTHP’s NMSC featured the efforts of successful advocacy groups in New Mexico, California and Illinois.

The Alliance meetings resulted in a 2005-2006 Work Plan that focused on four priority areas of work including:

1. Creating a formal organizational structure for the Alliance
2. Marketing the Alliance and Wisconsin Main Street
3. Building relationships with state and national legislators
4. Growing and maintaining the Wisconsin Main Street Program

Annually, since creation of the Alliance, work plans have been created, adopted and implemented.

Mission

Enhance the visibility and successes of the Main Street Programs in Wisconsin through resource development and education.

Purpose

The primary purpose of the Alliance shall be to enhance the visibility and success of the Main Street Program in Wisconsin through resource development and education in collaboration with the Wisconsin Main Street Program and the National Trust Main Street Center. In furtherance of this purpose, the organization shall focus on the enhancement of image, education, funding and community assistance.