Paving a path to wealth equity

To operationalize economic equity, Main ST is committed to building the capacity of those who are underrepresented and challenged in achieving economic success, as well as preparing a new generation to become economic contributors for inclusive participation in today's economy.
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Why we want to help

Small business is the life of a community.
The impact of economic inequities is profound and multifaceted.  Main ST was founded in 2017 because its founders were saddened by how many communities had lost their economic impact and viability due to factors such as businesses, especially Black businesses, closing their doors due to lack of access to resources.  These challenges have resulted in creating communities that are experiencing economic decline, as well as the elimination of culturally relevant shopping, local employment, and community pride.

What we do works (Main ST values):

We connect (representation and reliability)
Main ST is representative of the people we serve.  As a small minority-led organization with staff who live and work in the same communities we serve, we can relate to those we help. We connect with and understand the challenges faced by underrepresented individuals and businesses. This allows us to establish trusting and meaningful relationships.

We understand (relatable expertise and experience)
Main ST has firsthand experience in overcoming challenges related to building economic capacity.  This insight enables us to lead others through similar obstacles, helping them achieve their economic goals. 

We care (empathy and care)
Main ST genuinely cares about the success of underrepresented individuals.  We are also invested in preparing a new generation for economic participation either as business owners or leaders.  Our compassion and dedication contribute to a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters growth and empowerment.

We partner (collaborative approach)
It's crucial to implement community economic and wealth equity work that will holistically counteract challenges. Main ST collaborates on transformational community capacity building projects that put resources into the hands of those who need them the most.  To improve our reach and impact, Main ST has established partnerships with local organizations, government, and other stakeholders to build a strong network of collaborators.

Memberships and Associations

Mon Metro Chamber of Commerce
Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool Youth Development Network (PSAYDN)- Quality Committee Member
Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations
Greater Pittsburgh Nonprofit Partnership (GPNP)

A photograph by Pulsus Digital Media Company of  different Youth of Ethnic origins all reaching and holding a globe from the Jeron X. Grayson Community Center

Our Purpose

Main ST's focus is on equitable economic participation and empowerment, particularly for underrepresented communities and businesses.

To improve our region’s social impact, Main ST fosters economic empowerment, inclusiveness, and justice.

By supporting underrepresented businesses, collaborating with others, and investing in the next generation, the organization aims to create a positive and lasting impact on both individual lives and the community at large.
Board Members
Devone Ford, Chair
Georgetta L. Rue, Treasurer
Lisa Franklin Robinson
Marcella Brewer
Linda C. Weil
Dr. Patricia DeMarco
John Ward
Terry Washington

We Are Open - Business Economic Capacity Building

We Are Open activities improve operational, programmatic, financial, or organizational capability of underrepresented entrepreneurs, businesses, and organizations. Capacity building activities are: 

Products (i.e., website design/development, logo design, visual content)·      
Services (i.e., multi-media like podcasts, tech support, streaming,)·      
Education/Training (i.e., workshops, conferences, development,)·      
Development Processes (i.e., strategic planning, fund development, grant writing, business development, coaching, mentoring)

Our Participants & What We do for Them

Tech Innovation for
Youth Economic Mobility

Main Street Logo

Working to increase the economic self empowerment of the next generation

Main ST empowers underrepresented mostly low-income youth through hands-on learning activities, to gain competencies geared to empower and transform them into capable individuals who can navigate and thrive in an inequitable and unjust society by
   · Developing practical /technical, life, and social skills that are essential in the 21st-century workforce;
   · Providing them with opportunities to use their competencies in positive self-promoting ways; and,
   · Fostering pro-social and emotional racial socialization that creates a supportive environment.

Pulsus Digital Logo
drone shot by Pulsus Digital Client
Pulsus Digital Logo

Black working Artists need support to equitably market and sell their art.  A platform that allows them the freedom to showcase their cultural expression based on their experiences and the experiences of their communities, while allowing them to make money.  Although progress has been made to be more supportive of black artists, data shows there still remains a question of equity and inclusivity.

The art ecosystem still remains predominately a white space - most American Artist who successfully make a living from selling their art are white, while the curators, museums, galleries and other venues that set the standard for art are mainly white owned, operated and staffed (Among 18 major U.S. museums, 85% of artists featured are while, while 87% are men, according to 2019 Study by Williams College).  And because of the lack of black representation within this system, when it does come to exhibiting black art, these platforms usually base their selection of which black artists to display on their comfort and viewpoint.

Beyond building inclusivity within these structures, we need to transform the structural landscape to combat this historical inequity.  One way is to increase black operated platforms that identify with black artists experiences and can provide them cultural support. Working with other black art organizations, PD Arts Collective will provide multimedia, technology and marketing / branding support that provides equitable economic opportunities for black artist to promote, showcase and sell their art.

FAQs

Where are you located?

Our office is located at 4817 Chatsworth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15207
Our Programs and Services take place in a variety of locations. Check our website for schedules and locations.

How do we contact you for more information?

You can contact the Main ST Executive Director, Lori Rue, at lrue@deloje.com, for more information.

What programming and services do we provide? What are some the programs?

At this time, we provide the following programs and services
We Are Open
Tech Innovation

How can I apply for Main ST services?

Please check our website for updates

Does my child qualify?

We are in the process of developing our application for community-based activities.

Do we provide year roundproigramming?

Yes. Check our website for our schedule

Have more questions?

Contact Us