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
Local Business to Offer Staffing Support
Emporia, KS – When the Pandemic hit, Misty Gardner (RN) found herself facing a professional and personal dilemma. Like others in her field, medical professionals were faced with grueling schedules and the challenge of children at home due to school and childcare facilities closing. Gardner realized that health care providers needed a way to manage their…
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Preparing for Back to School Opportunities.
Summer is racing by and back to school is right around the corner, so it’s not to soon to start planning for the school year. I know you are probably tired of us writing this, but “this year will look a little different.” The “little different” applies to welcome events, school supplies, preparatory activities, worker…
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New Job Board for Gigs, Part-Time, Full-Time, and Freelancers!
Across multiple industries, organizational types, and work place sizes businesses, governmental entities, and nonprofits are struggling to fill positions. After some thoughtful consideration by the Emporia Main Street Board of Directors, our Business Enhancement Team with assistance from IM Design Group, we are introducing a new tool to help (CLICK HERE). But, before we get…
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Preparing for UNBOUND
We will see a huge influx of gravel riders into Emporia next week for the Unbound Cycling Event. While some travel restrictions will limit a bit of participation, we will still see thousands of riders in Emporia. The influx of people will result in a number of community opportunities if businesses and citizens adapt to…
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What is next in the realm of Community and Economic Development?
During the National Main Street Conference, we had the opportunity to listen to a variety of different speakers and researchers tracking changes in community and economic development cultures. Understanding those changes can enhance businesses ability to grow, and communities that embrace and anticipate changes can enhance their local economies.Amy Lui, the Vice President and Director…
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What is the Cost of a Vacant Building?
“It’s not hurting anything.”“I can do whatever I want with whatever I own.”“I inherited it, and I’m really not in a hurry to let it go.”“It’s got sentimental value.”“For the right price (that I won’t provide) I may entertain an offer.”“It used to give me income, but I don’t know what to do with it…
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