Today the results from the Equitable Entrepreneurial Ecosystems in Rural Communities Pilot Program . Main Street America has positioned itself well at the center of these important discussions, continuing many years of excellent work with the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. Several important findings were shared. These were results of nine workshops held in nine different states in 2023. Workshops were
The Grover Cleveland Service Area is a modern building off of I-95 in Woodbridge Township, New Jersey. Inside it is light and airy thanks to the curtain glass wall. Gover Cleveland was born on March 18, 1837 in Caldwell, New Jersey. In 1841 the family moved to Fayetteville, New Jersey, where Grover spent much of his childhood. Cleveland was leader
Belle Mara is both a brewery and a distillery, serving their own beer and spirits in separate buildings. We visited during their Christmas Market when there were a number of craft vendors and food trucks, in addition to tasting of the spirits that they are known for. Hand painted signs on their building is a nice touch. It makes the
Coda: we got thinking about economics. If a table is available for sit down diners and is turned over five times with an average ticket of $60, that is $300. Profit margins for restaurants are quite low between 3% and 10%. So for that $300 of revenue the business may make between $9 and $30 in profit. The opportunity cost
As a frequent visitor to the Jersey Shore, we’d often pass through Point Pleasant Beach on our way to the shore. When an opportunity came up to visit and learn more about the revitalization happening there – it was too great of an opportunity to pass by. Right away we were struck by the incredible landmark quality historic buildings. This
One of the direct effects of the COVID-19 pandemic were questions about food systems and where our food comes from. Production delays and creeping inflation in recent years have been cause for major concern. Collectively these crises revealed the disconnected nature between where food is raised and consumed. The farmers market movement has long focused on local food. Some require
The International Economic Development Council in their Economic Development 101 training suggest the best business recruitment strategy is a business retention strategy. How does one go about accomplishing that? Regular contacts for one. In a Main Street setting the motto should always be to “get out.” Only when the manager is out and about in the district can they see,
A parklet is not only a physical intervention but also an economic one. To transform a parking spot on average of 250 to 400 square feet into a place for people allows getting a greater return on investment. Various studies have shown that spending by parklet users can boost revenue at neighboring businesses by 2x or 3x. This spending is
The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Expenditure Survey (CEX) to estimate retail market demand, based on the current household demographic characteristics. There are a number of expenditure categories in the CEX that can be omitted from the estimate, as these are atypical (e.g., funerary services). This example demonstrates how to calculate market demand for Metuchen, New Jersey in 2017. Average Household Income $112,971– Groceries $3,757–
We visited Keyport, New Jersey, for my 41st birthday. Following dinner at Old Glory, we walked around the downtown and got some cake and ice cream. This bank building had dramatic lighting. Adjustable sconces provide up and down lighting. These lights highlight the cornice to make it stand out further. Inside the former bank building it appears to be used