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.
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.
Main ST's collaboration with community partners to improve the region's social impact through equitable wealth building is a strategic approach to addressing economic disparities and fostering community empowerment. Main ST is particularly focused on supporting underrepresented communities, aiming to enhance their economic capabilities and promote sustained economic prosperity.
Main Street and its community partners will lay a solid foundation for sustained economic prosperity, empowering underrepresented communities to amplify their economic abilities and achieve equitable wealth building.
Strategies to achieve this goal include:
- Ensuring Inclusiveness by making economic development opportunities accessible to all, regardless of their background or current economic status (community engagement, policy advocacy, targeted programs)
- Providing resources and support (access to capital; education and training; infrastructure development; and, mentorship and networking)
- Fostering a culture of entrepreneurship by building ecosystems that support entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey and by highlighting and celebrating success stories
- Building strong partnerships with local governments, non profits, educational institutions, and the private sector to leverage resources and expertise
- Establishing mechanisms for ongoing feedback from the community to ensure that activities are meeting their needs and adjusting to changing circumstances.
Remaking the Mon Valley Labor Force Partners:
Turtle Creek Valley Council of Governments and Steel Rivers Council of Governments, Mon Valley Initiative, Mon Metro Business Equity Initiative, Heritage Community Initiatives, Pittsburgh Community Services, Inc., Pittsburghers for Public Transit
Main ST & Associates:
A division of Main ST, Main ST & Associates is a diverse team of experts with
proficiency in various subject matters relating to community economic capacity building.
The team is well-equipped to approach projects and
initiatives from a comprehensive and well-rounded perspective.
The team members have a range of skills and expertise
which is advantageous for addressing the multifaceted challenges.
Eos Energy Storage Community Benefits Plan Project
The current team members are:
Tina Doose, consultant and former President of Braddock Borough Council
Dr. Particia DeMarco, consultant and current Vice President of Forest Hills Borough Council
Main ST staff
Georgetta L. Rue, DeLoJe
(Bios Pending)
Some services we offer include
Community Benefit Plan Technical Assistance
Other kinds of Technical Assistance
Education and Development
Coordination / Facilitation of events or activities related to community economic community building
Consultation
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)
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)