The North Carolina Department of Commerce will recognize 42 individuals and organizations as Main Street Champions at a ceremony on March 12 in New Bern. The honorees, nominated by their local Main Street communities, are being acknowledged for their dedication to downtown revitalization and community building during 2025.
The recognition highlights the ongoing efforts to strengthen downtown areas across the state. With this year’s group, the total number of Main Street Champions has reached 1,004 since the program began in 2000. The ceremony is part of the annual N.C. Main Street Conference, which is described as the nation’s largest statewide downtown revitalization conference.
“Main Street Champions embody the spirit of possibility,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “They turn concepts into action, energize local economies, and inspire others to invest in the future of their communities. The dedication of our champions ensures that North Carolina’s downtowns remain vibrant places where history meets progress.”
Reginald Speight, Assistant Secretary of Rural Economic Development at Commerce, said: “Each Champion is a catalyst for progress while bringing energy and commitment to the heart of our downtowns – turning challenges into opportunities and ensuring rural North Carolina thrives. Their work creates places where people want to build their lives and businesses for generations to come.”
Liz Parham, Director of the N.C. Main Street & Rural Planning Center, added: “Recognizing Main Street Champions is one of the most meaningful traditions of our conference. They truly demonstrate the theme of this year’s event, ‘Inspiring Impactful Change’, and their efforts leave a lasting impact on the places they call home.”
The N.C. Main Street Program marks its 46th year supporting community revitalization throughout North Carolina and its 25th year providing education through its annual conference. The program uses strategies developed by Main Street America to help local leaders foster vibrant and economically resilient communities.
