Main Street needs votes to win $25K

The Hartwell Main Street program could win a $25,000 cash prize, but it needs the community’s help to do so.
Hartwell is among the 2020 nominees for the fifth-annual America’s Main Streets contest conducted by Independent We Stand, a national small business movement.
To move on to the next round, Hartwell Main Street needs online votes.
“Our Independent We Stand America’s Main Streets contest gives small business owners the opportunity to share their Main Street stories nationwide,” says Independent We Stand co-founder Bill Brunelle. “But we know it takes a community to make that possible, so we’re inviting consumers to help recognize their favorite indie businesses.”
The first round of voting is going on now through April 19. Votes are cast at MainStreetContest.com.
Hartwell’s Main Street has Classic Georgia Main Street status and uses a four-point approach to economic growth through the lens of historic preservation in the downtown district. It is funded through sponsorships, partnerships, in-kind donations and grants.
“This $25,000 cash prize will greatly help us in the bringing amenities to Hartwell that residents and tourists alike want,” said Main Street and Downtown Development Director Jason Ford. “Hartwell’s Main Street Program is a volunteer driven organization, and our volunteers give up their time and talent to bring services and events to our downtown with the goal of increasing foot traffic in our merchant’s stores. $25,000 would help us provide resources to our merchants and beautify our downtown in a way that can do just that.”
Semifinalist voting in the contest will be from April 27 to May 24. The winner of the America’s Main Streets contest will be announced June 2.
For more information on Hartwell Main Street, visit: hartwellmainstreet.com or contact Jason Ford at hartwellmainstreet@hartcom.net or at 706-376-4756.
The contest is presented by Stihl.