Inside Track

Getting Started

New Mexico MainStreet member communities focus their efforts on these areas, known as the Four-Point Approach:

  • Organization—establishing consensus and cooperation by building effective relationships among the community’s downtown stakeholders
  • Economic Positioning—strengthening downtown’s existing economic assets and fulfilling its broadest market potential
  • Design—enhancing the unique visual quality of downtown to create an appealing environment
  • Promotion—creating and marketing a positive image based on the unique attributes of the downtown district

How to Become a New Mexico MainStreet Start-Up Community

Based on the annual allocation from the New Mexico Legislature and the Governor, MainStreet opens enrollment each summer. Cities and towns wishing to become MainStreet Start-Up Communities throw their hats into the ring via an official Letter of Interest (LOI). The letter must include a resolution by the city council indicating financial support for the local MainStreet affiliate. In addition, this letter must be accompanied by a list of names and addresses of downtown stakeholders who, if selected, will become the local MainStreet affiliate’s steering committee. To see a sample Letter of Interest, click here.

How to Receive Services from New Mexico MainStreet

Once a Start-Up Community has been selected, it must complete a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with New Mexico MainStreet and its parent organization, the New Mexico Economic Development Department. This is a formal agreement outlining mutual expectations, roles, and responsibilities between the local nonprofit organization representing downtown stakeholders, the municipality, and New Mexico MainStreet. MOUs are developed according to the needs of individual communities. To see a sample MOU, click here.

Professional Development

For existing member organizations and individual managers, New Mexico MainStreet is now offering two new accreditations furthering these professionals as well as the communities they serve.

New Mexico MainStreet Manager Certification

This certification is for individuals choosing a career path in MainStreet organization management. The certification is also a prerequisite for organizations seeking New Mexico MainStreet Organization Accreditation. Click here to download the certification standards.

New Mexico MainStreet Organization Accreditation

Offered for the entire affiliate organization, this accreditation is earned through successful completion of the MainStreet Institutes in nonprofit management, fund-raising, and grant-writing, along with the MainStreet Four-Point Approach. All organizations are encouraged to complete accreditation. Upon doing so, special discounts on materials, products, and special services will available. Click here to download the accreditation standards.

Forms for Members

Design and Urban Planning
Organization
Promotions
Economic Positioning