Emporia Main Street's BUSINESS ENHANCEMENT programs are implemented by a committee of volunteers along with Main Street staff. The primary goals of our business enhancement initiatives are to:
- support, educate, and provide resources for ALL entrepreneurs and businesses throughout Emporia
- grow a sustainable core business district downtown
Our business enhancement programs provide a wide variety of tools to assist new and existing businesses, catalyze property development, and create a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and innovators that strengthen Emporia's local economy.
Business Enhancement Programs
Start Your Own Business Class
If you're ready to take your business from concept to reality, the Start Your Own Business class is one of the best tools at your disposal.
Available Property Listings
We can help you find a property that's a great match for your business concept. If you own a property, contact us for a free listing!
Incubator Space
Next door to the Emporia Main Street office, this 1,100 square foot rent-free space is available to start-up businesses for a set period and includes business mentoring.
Business Consulting
Individual advice tailored to your business.
Grants, Loans & Tax Credits
Emporia Main Street provides access to wealth of financial incentives to start or expand a business, including our own low-interest loan program, matching fund opportunities, and assistance with local, state and federal financial programs.
Business Investment Guide
Created for entrepreneurs and developers, our Business Investment Guide outlines why Emporia is a great place to do business, and includes a list of available resources to get started.
Want to support budding entrepreneurs, or become an entrepreneur yourself?
Emporia Main Street is here to help your business grow. Your support also promotes overall economic development and re-investment in downtown and the community as a whole.
Interested in Joining the business enhancement committee?
The Business Enhancement Committee perfect for those who are passionate about business, fueling job growth in Emporia, and helping entrepreneurs launch or expand. Click the button below if you'd like to join!
Business Education
Making Spirits Bright! Creating a Fun & Festive Holiday Atmosphere for Your BusinessMaking Spirits Bright!
The holiday season is here, and it’s the perfect opportunity for small businesses in Emporia to create a magical atmosphere that delights customers and energizes employees. With a little creativity, you can transform your shop into a festive wonderland that spreads holiday cheer while also boosting sales. Here are some practical ways to cultivate a…
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The Reasons for Shopping Local (and locally owned). A Healthy Community Starts with Smart Consumer Decisions.
Emporia Main Street supports local shopping all year long. Through events, marketing assistance, access to data, gift certificate programs, and a variety of other initiatives we encourage local citizens to shop local and locally owned. Our organization works hard to place visitors immediately adjacent to our unique local businesses to facilitate in-store traffic and boost…
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Local SEO Optimization for Small Businesses. Getting noticed online is a key to driving in-store traffic.
In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for small businesses, especially in local communities like Emporia, Kansas. Local Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a powerful tool that can help your business stand out to potential customers searching for products or services in your area. This article will define what local SEO…
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An Energy Dollar Saved is an Energy Dollar Earned! Understanding efficiency options for your business.
Kansas businesses spend a higher percentage of their gross income on utilities than most of the nation. That fact isn’t a knock on our utility companies, it is a function of our climate. Anyone from Kansas will tell you that we get just about as cold as anyone in the winter, and just about as…
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The 2024 Start Your Own Business Class
We are getting ready to gear up for the eighteenth year of the Start Your Own Business Class! The class starts each October, and features nine class segments designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs with technical knowledge to operate a successful enterprise while developing a network that can help coach small business owners through startup and…
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Grant Opportunities – Financing Available for Special Projects
Grants are relatively rare and require a well thought out plan, the ability to execute, matching funding, and adherence to grant parameters. Dollars invested through grant platforms are generally designed to inspire sustainable growth. Grants are generally highly competitive, and an application doesn’t guarantee an award. However, if you are interested in grants there are…
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