Carefully read each category description and note what information, photos, or accompanying materials are required to be submitted with each nomination.
Business of the Year
This award recognizes Main Street businesses with the most interest and impact on the local downtown revitalization effort. These businesses set the example for others by having quality business acumen and/or being actively involved with the Designated Main Street or downtown organization as volunteers. Include a detailed description and accomplishments of the merchant’s business. Include one (1) to two (2) photos of the nominee, preferably the owner(s) inside or outside of their business or in action with customers. Each Designated Main Street and Network Member community will be recognized with ONE Business of the Year in this category.
Outstanding Public Partner
This award recognizes a public/governmental body's participation and partnership with a Designated Main Street or downtown organization. Nominations should demonstrate that a public partner has gone "above and beyond" to benefit the organization or downtown business district. This can include participation in a specific project or as an ongoing collaboration with the organization. Submit two (2) to three (3) photos of the nomination. Please include information on each partner or group involved with the Main Street program or project and specific details concerning their contribution to the organization.
Main Street Volunteer of the Year
This award recognizes an individual who has invested his/her time and energy in a Designated Main Street or downtown organization and whose leadership has helped the program achieve the organization’s vision. Describe the nominee’s role in the organization and how he/she has demonstrated leadership or exemplary service. Please include one (1) photo of the nominee, preferably of the volunteer in action. Please include information about the person’s tenure with the organization, the extent of his/her involvement on committees, and any other accomplishments indicating an exceptional commitment of time and energy to the organization. Each Designated Main Street and Network Member community will be recognized with ONE Volunteer of the Year in this category.
Design Improvement of the Year (Building Façade, Interiors, Streetscape, Adaptive Reuse)
This award recognizes excellence in enhancing the physical design of downtown districts through thoughtful rehabilitation, restoration, or adaptive reuse. Eligible projects may include exterior façade improvements, commercial or residential interior renovations, streetscape enhancements, and adaptive reuse of historic buildings. Submissions should reflect the principles of Main Street design and demonstrate respect for the architectural character and context of the district. Whether a storefront restoration, a reimagined public space, or the transformation of a historic structure for a new use, each project should show a commitment to revitalization that benefits both the property and the broader community.
Entries must include photographs showing the property before, during, and after the improvement and a detailed project description. Please include the project timeline (start and completion dates), the original and current use of the property, names of any architects, designers, or contractors involved, and an approximate project cost.
Event & Promotion of the Year
This award recognizes the best promotional event or activity by a Designated Main Street or downtown organization developed in cooperation with downtown businesses—retail, service/professional, and/or dining. Judging will be based on originality, creativity, uniqueness, and the event’s financial impact on businesses. Please describe the title/relevant theme, attendance figures, the percentage of increase in sales and profits, whether there was any cross-promoting by compatible companies, and the extent of business participation. Explain the method used to measure the success of this event, including sales figures. Please include the event budget and copies of relevant printed materials such as brochures, flyers, or newspaper clippings. Testimonials from participating businesses are encouraged. Please include three (3) to five (5) event photos.
New This Year- Statewide Business of the Year!
This awards season, we are trying something new! In addition to our Main Street Business of the Year award, we have added a Nebraska Business of the Year category. This means that you can nominate your favorite Nebraska business, whether they are in a Main Street community or not.
The purpose of this award is to promote Nebraska Main Street, along with businesses that support your local communities.
