As Main Street El Dorado assists downtown merchants with coronavirus (COVID-19) relief programs, the nonprofit organization continues to grapple with its own COVID-related woes.
Because of the ongoing public health crisis, MSE, like many other groups, has been forced to cancel events throughout the year, thus stunting its revenue stream for 2020.
In response, MSE has been working with a consultant that was recommended by its parent group, Main Street Arkansas, to develop a marketing/fundraising strategy.
The campaign was to have been announced this month but Beth Brumley, MSE executive director, said the campaign will likely be rolled out next month.
Brumley has said the group’s last money-making event was a Harlem Globetrotters’ exhibition, which was held in February in Wildcat Arena.
Since then, Main Street has had to cancel several events, including MusicFest, its flagship fundraiser. Brumley previously said MSE has enough money in its budget to last until February.
MSE draws much of its income from events and activities that are supported by sponsors and other revenue sources, such as grants.
This year, funding was increased for the annual Downtown Revitalization Grant (DTRG) program, which is available to local communities that participate in the Main Street Arkansas network.
MSE received $25,000, the maximum amount that was available — up from $15,000 that the group typically receives.
With the $25,000, MSE was able to increase awards for its mini-grant program, which provides matching funds of up to $1,500 for approved projects, both inside and outside, within the Main Street District.
Mini-grants may used for projects that will enhance a building — such as new awnings, painting, lighting — even if a tenant moves out or the property changes ownership.
The DTRG award included a line item for COVID relief in the form of the one-time grant for the 2020 grant cycle. A match was not required for COVID-19 relief funds.
The deadline to apply for both grants was Sept. 15.
Brumley announced that MSE handed out $10,000 worth of grants, mini and COVID relief, to 20 businesses, compared to $6,500 in mini-grants that were awarded to eight applicants in 2019.
The mini-grants are one of several downtown improvement/support projects that MSE undertakes to fulfill its mission of engaging “community involvement to promote economic growth and historic preservation in Downtown El Dorado” and its vision statement of maintaining “a stimulating atmosphere to attract local and out of town guests to promote economic development, entertainment and tourism.”
Brumley said that she and MSE board members have spent much of September and October with the consultant to develop a fundraising strategy to help MSE survive the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
She said details of the plan are still being finalized, adding that the strategy will call for MSE to work with an advertising firm to help get the word out about the goals and functions of the Main Street program.
MSE opted to wait until the end of election season to focus on unveiling the campaign and seeking community support, Brumley explained.