Post on 21-May-2020
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Downtown Revitalization and Business Assistance Project – 2012/13
PROJECT NARRATIVE
1. Need, goals and objectives
Overview
The Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO) seeks a USDA Rural Business Enterprise
Grant (RBEG) to increase its reach and impact in the state through the Downtown Revitalization
and Business Assistance Project – 2012/13 (DRBAP) by offering business development and
related downtown revitalization capacity-building services to existing and emerging
entrepreneurs, town representatives, and revitalization staff and volunteers within twelve rural
towns in rural Delaware.
Need Ten of the twelve towns targeted for this project are located in Kent and Sussex counties, the two
counties that exhibit the lowest unemployment rates of the three counties in Delaware: As of
February 2012 Sussex County had the state’s highest unadjusted jobless rate, at 8.2 percent,
followed by Kent (7.7 percent) and New Castle (7.3 percent).1 The other two towns targeted for
services are located in rural portions of New Castle Delaware. (See Attachment A, Page 15 for
map of the state that identifies the twelve communities.) All communities fall under a population
of 50,000. The average median household income (MHI) of these twelve communities
(combined) is $48,170, which is under the USA MHI of $51,914, and is further under the
Delaware MHI of $57,599.2
Translated into the rural downtown environment, one will often see generally higher rates of
vacancy, struggling businesses due to the “down” retail sales climate, and lower rates of
investment and property development in areas of higher unemployment. Such is the case in
Delaware. Thus, the support and development of programs that will create and enhance
environments, or ecosystems, that will support entrepreneurship and foster small business
development in rural areas is critical.
We believe that the prosperity of Delaware’s rural downtowns where retailers and entrepreneurs
can thrive is a key element in supporting and building the economic health of the community,
and further, stands to support the economic health and increased quality of life throughout
Delaware. It is an opportune time for aggressive measures to build both a downtown
environment that is conducive to residents, shoppers, and visitors, and to and build the capacity
for success of entrepreneurs in those downtowns. Further,
“As the successes become more visible and prove that value-creating entrepreneurship
can and does happen anywhere and everywhere, the cultivation of a conducive ecosystem
will not be a “nice-to-have” opportunity but a “must-have” necessity. Citizens
1http://www.bls.gov/ro3/delaus.htm (See ATTACHMENT F)
2 http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/10000.html
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everywhere will expect and demand the equal access to the possibility of prosperity that
entrepreneurship can provide.” 3
In short: it is not only an opportune time, but it is a critical time to develop increasingly
sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystems within Delaware’s rural cities and towns.
Goals
The Downtown Revitalization and Business Assistance Project – 2012/13 (DRBAP) is a strategy
intended to address the need to create local entrepreneurial ecosystems in rural Delaware that
will support small businesses and entrepreneurs, while enhancing the environments that will
further afford opportunities not only for those entrepreneurs, but also for shoppers, visitors,
residents to enjoy the authentic, experiential places that downtowns in rural Delaware are poised
to offer.
The strategy comprised of technical services and training to advance both small business
viability, as well as overall economic viability of, and quality of place in, the downtowns in
which the businesses are located.
The Downtown Revitalization and Business Assistance Project – 2012/13 (DRBAP) will address
three key areas:
1. Retailers and entrepreneurs in rural areas will be afforded best chances for success by
learning best practices in entrepreneurism, small business start-up and business
ownership, eCommerce, retail sales and promotion strategies, etc. Specifically, critical
training in “new economy” tactics will be offered, including utilization of technology,
innovation, and minnovation4. These kinds of tactics will bolster “brick and mortar”
sales while helping entrepreneurs identify niche products, potentially catapulting these
businesses into regional and even global markets.
2. Further, an exciting special component of this project will engage several aspiring and/or
new business owners in an incubator strategy modeled after two successful similar
projects,5 wherein lower-risk opportunities will be created to spur fledgling businesses
into the commercial environment, yet with limited risk and investment.
3. And finally, the DRBAP is intended to build capacity of those community leaders that are
responsible for creating the favorable conditions in which entrepreneurs will succeed,
which will further enhance the economic vitality of downtown as well as unique,
experiential opportunities for visitors, shoppers, and residents of the community.
3 http://blogs.forbes.com/danisenberg/ (Daniel Isenberg is founding Executive Director of the Babson
Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Project and Professor of Management Practice at Babson Global.)
4 Minnovation means “small tweaks [in business practices] and excellent execution.”
http://blogs.forbes.com/danisenberg/
5 Main Street programs have successfully incorporated the “pop-up” strategy in Cambridge, MD and Florence, SC.
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Objectives:
The project targets twelve communities in rural Delaware. The DEDO has well-established
relationships with representatives of eleven of the twelve targeted communities, and seeks to
engage the one town (Georgetown) as a new Commercial District Affiliate, which will establish
local contacts and engage community stakeholders into a process that will guide local business
development and community revitalization activities. (Attachment A, Page 15)
Through this proposed program of technical assistance, USDA funds will be advancing federal,
state, and local community economic goals by:
1.) Building skills of downtown entrepreneurs at both basic and advanced levels, as well as
assisting emerging/start-ups in launching a business and/or establishing a downtown
presence.
2.) Providing a variety of training opportunities to community stakeholders that are
purposefully involved in the downtown revitalization process for their community. These
include representatives of numerous towns that are proactively and consistently
developing and implementing initiatives for stronger commercial business districts
including those that currently host a local comprehensive revitalization program (I.e.;
designated Main Street towns), and those towns that host a more abbreviated
revitalization strategy (I.e.; Delaware Commercial District Affiliate towns).
Specifically, the activities and technical assistance/training opportunities are proposed, as below:
TRAINING Target Date
SMALL BUSINESS/ENTREPRENEURIAL TRAINING:
New initiative “Pop-ups” incubator concept (training to targeted towns/merchants, engagement of towns/marketing of concept, one-on-one assistance to selected businesses, assistance toward interior decoration – paint, carpet to prepare one space in each town for occupancy; town/property owner provide cost of rent for three months)
Launch July 1, 2012
Kauffman FastTrac Entrepreneurial Training (target 10 entrepreneurs) June/July 2012
Retailer training by national retailing expert (target 50 merchant entrepreneurs) Fall 2012
3 Day eCommerce Training for small business owners (target 10 entrepreneurs) November 2012
REVITALIZATION TRAINING:
Feature Presentation (2 proposed) Target 50 downtown revitalization representatives. Sept/Oct 2012 Feb/March 2013
Main Street: Basic or Advanced Training (2 days, once/year) (target 35 downtown
revitalization representatives) Jan/Feb 2013
National Main Streets conference (New Orleans, LA, Proposed March 2012) (target
6 downtown revitalization representatives) March 2013
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The proposed strategy has been developed as a necessary series of services tailored site-
specifically and, in some cases, as a follow-on to services provided to several of these rural
towns over the past several years through DEDO’s resource center known as Downtown
Delaware. At the same time, a majority of the services are brand new, and new towns/personnel
are being introduced for the first time to these types of training opportunities.
In the past, many of these types of services were jointly funded between DEDO and a USDA
Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) Grant. Through these services, 21 new
businesses and 38 new jobs in seven towns were created, and 18 downtown businesses were
established, retained and/or expanded. Well over 100 individual businesses received
assistance. Further, in five recent consecutive years, 2008-2012, Delaware’s Main Street
towns have seen an average net gain of 4 new businesses and 17 new jobs in each of 6.5
towns annually, which translates to 139 new businesses and 552 new jobs for the state.6
2. Type and number of small businesses to be assisted, jobs created and retained
Targeted Business and Job Metrics:
1.) Business & Job Creation:
1. Net gain of twelve (12) new businesses and twelve (12) new jobs.
2. Six (6) aspiring/start-up entrepreneurs launch a downtown “pop-up”, which is a
temporary business in a currently vacant location, with the anticipation of three
(3) of them establishing a permanent business location in a Delaware downtown
on/by March 31, 2013.
3. Two (2) businesses are launched as an outcome of FastTrac training.
2.) Business & Job Retention:
1. Fifty (50) businesses receive assistance through group retailer training.
2. Receive an indication from at least half of those trained (propose 25) that they
have implemented recommendations from the training that have helped their
business stabilize or expand through means such as increased sales, broadened
inventory, increased customer base, successful integration of eCommerce or
incorporation of computer or other technology and/or innovation, within three to
six months of receiving said service.
3.) Businesses to be Assisted:
1. Ten (10) downtown entrepreneurs successfully complete Ewing Kauffman
FastTrac New Venture or Growth Venture programs (ten-session; 40+ hour).
2. Ten (10) downtown entrepreneurs successfully complete Ecommerce training.
3. Six (6) downtown entrepreneurs receive one-on-one assistance toward a
successful launch and establishment of a temporary “pop-up” location.
4. Three (3) “pop-up” tenants establish permanent location.
6 Downtown Delaware’s quarterly statistics 2008-2012 (DEDO)
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4.) Vacancy Reduction:
1. Target temporary occupancy in six (6) currently vacant business properties, with a
further target of permanent occupancy in three (3) of these properties by project
timeline end.
Other Metrics – Downtown Capacity-Building:
In addition to business- and job-related metrics, we intend to build capacity of
community programs/organizations whose purpose is development of thriving,
“entrepreneurially-friendly” downtowns that provide services, amenities and experiential
opportunities to residents, shoppers, visitors, tourists, etc. Such capacity-building
activities follow the Main Street model, and will include:
1. Providing a variety of training opportunities to representatives of numerous towns
that currently host a local revitalization program (designated Main Street towns),
or towns that are proactively and consistently developing and implementing
initiatives for stronger commercial business districts (Delaware Commercial
District Affiliate towns);
2. Engaging one (1) town (target Georgetown) as new Commercial District Affiliate;
3. Engaging two (2) rural towns in technical services to prepare at least one of them
to successfully launch a local Main Street comprehensive program of downtown
revitalization within fiscal year 2014 (target Millsboro and Seaford); and
4. In order for representatives to initiate local strategies to better their downtown
business, social, and physical environment, provide:
a. Two (2) days of Main Street Four-Point Basic training inviting a
statewide audience, with an anticipated attendance of 35;
b. Two (2) Feature Presentations on Downtown Issues, inviting a statewide
audience, with an anticipated attendance of 50 at each presentation;
c. Registration reimbursement and a travel stipend to 6 (six) recipients from
among the targeted towns who commit to attending the national Main
Streets conference, for both training and networking on a national basis.
While we will target “never-before” attenders, we will strive to engage at
least one active revitalization representative from each of six of the named
towns.
Who will receive the training?
The proposed training will be provided to groups of downtown merchants, as well as
individual entrepreneurs, and to staff/volunteers of said programs, committees, and/or
towns, thereby not only increasing the local knowledge, but ensuring sustainability of the
business development and downtown revitalization concepts/practices once the services are
delivered through this ten-month program of training. While services will be held in the targeted
communities, we anticipate inviting a statewide audience wherever possible. 7
7 In the past, USDA grant-funded services have leveraged an opportunity to invite a statewide audience of
revitalization-minded individuals. For instance, over 800 individuals statewide were able to attend training from the
2008-2011 RCDI-funded activity.
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Six (6) aspiring/start-up entrepreneurs will launch a downtown “pop-up”, which is a temporary
business in a currently vacant location, with the anticipation of three (3) of them establishing a
permanent business location in a Delaware downtown on/by March 31, 2013. In order to ensure
success of this venture, roughly one third of the requested USDA funds will be used toward this
brand new “pop-up” initiative:
The development of engaging forms of marketing and promotion of the initiative,
such as a promotional site specific video (see http://vimeo.com/22863954);
Assistance with property owner for engagement/securing of space and local match
by community for three months of rent;
One-on-one business owner assistance to ensure successful launch and anticipated
establishment of permanent business beyond the three month timeframe;
Funding toward re-decoration of interior space to prepare for new tenant, with
engagement of volunteers for labor. (Note: Funding will be limited to interior
decoration and will not include exterior renovations of any kind.)
For “pop-up” models, see:
o http://www.preservationnation.org/main-street/main-street-news/story-of-
the-week/2010/pop-up-shops-generate-holiday.html
o http://vimeo.com/22863954
Further, through the proposed project, Downtown Delaware will target and expose ten (10)
“start-up” and/or established Downtown entrepreneurs to entrepreneurial training:
First, the Ewing Kauffman FastTrac New Venture and Growth Venture
programs: These programs are now being offered by only one source in Delaware
(the Delaware Emerging Technology Center, a program of the DEDO)
commenced in October 2011. It has been noted by some that this training is
arguably the best entrepreneurial training in the world.8 (Attachment B, Page 16)
DEDO’s very popular Ecommerce: Sales and Marketing training will target ten
aspiring or existing downtown entrepreneurs, and expose them to the use of
technology in order to reach a target market outside of the state and even globally.
Both of these training opportunities, encompassing approximately another one third of the
requested USDA funding, will offer entrepreneurs’ potential to hone skills and earn higher
profits will provide them a remarkable edge over those who have not been advantaged to receive
such advanced, quality training.
And finally, as designated Delaware Main Street programs or Delaware Commercial District
Affiliates, each of the towns targeted for services in this proposal currently have well-established
programs or Economic Development committees comprised of both public and private
entities/stakeholders that have the capacity to receive training on topics related to downtown
economic development, and through which they are able to engage and assist local businesses
and entrepreneurs. These and other downtown stakeholders that are formally involved in
revitalization activities will receive the remainder of the proposed services, which encompass
roughly the final third of the requested USDA funding and are focused on the Main Street Four
8 “Kauffman FastTrac strives to connect entrepreneurs to the best resources available to start and grow successful
businesses. Kauffman FastTrac program accomplishes this through a series of learning experiences, products, and
services”. For more information, visit http://www.fasttrac.org.
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Point Approach and building a downtown environment that is conducive to entrepreneurs,
shoppers, visitors, and residents. (See ATTACHMENT C, Page 17)
NOTE: See also: “Item #2. Type and number of small businesses to be assisted, jobs created
and retained”.
3. Is project a duplication of existing services?
No. The “pop-up” initiative is NOT a duplication of existing services, but rather is a brand new
initiative for Downtown Delaware. It should be noted, though, that two excellent models will be
used to launch the initiative confidently and successfully.4
While several of the remaining entrepreneurial development training and revitalization technical
services/training opportunities in this proposal have been offered previously (and with USDA
funding through the RCDI grant), the Downtown Delaware (Main Street) annual allocation from
the State legislature is at an all-time low, and new communities and entrepreneurs are being
engaged, thus the requested grant funds will provide the DEDO with opportunity to provide a
combination of basic and advanced services that, without USDA grant funds, the DEDO would
be unable to provide.
Further, it should be noted that while rural areas in Kent and Sussex counties are the primary
target audience, a statewide audience will benefit from much of the training.
4. Is project compatible with state and county planning objectives?
Yes. The Main Street model is utilized nationally and internationally and is widely considered a
“best practice” in downtown revitalization. The DEDO’s program of downtown revitalization
follows the National Trust Main Street Center (NTMSC) methodology, a proven model for
downtown/community economic development that is particularly effective in rural communities.
This process simultaneously addresses the four points of organization, design, economic
development, and promotion. (See Attachment B)
The Main Street model is designed to build public and private philosophical and financial
support, thereby drawing upon local opportunities and building community self-reliance
that leads to economic development of the community’s commercial district. Local
designated Delaware Main Street programs are grassroots-driven, comprised of public and
private partners, and are led by one paid manager. Delaware Commercial District Affiliates
reflect the Main Street model, but are a smaller scale, with more limited resources, and are
comprised of a committee that is generally volunteer-driven by local stakeholders, with formal
representation by at least one representative of the municipality.
Currently, there are eight designated Main Street communities in Delaware, with several others
aspiring to that status. Nine “Commercial District Affiliates” are in the “pipeline” for
consideration for future designation. Delaware’s Main Street programs have enjoyed longevity of
as much as 15 years and rarely disintegrate once they commence, thus sustainability of purpose
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is implied with adherence to the Main Street model. Training by staff of the NTMSC and its
affiliated consultants ensures that practices taught are current, reasonable, and highly practical
for use with downtown professionals and lay persons (grassroots, volunteers) alike.
5. Demographic information to include population, median household income, and
unemployment
The project/services will be targeted within the twelve Delaware communities exhibited in the
table below.
NOTES regarding information in table below:
All communities fall under a population of 50,000.
The average median household income (MHI) of these twelve communities (combined)
is $48,170, which is under the USA MHI of $51,914, and is further under the Delaware
MHI of $57,599.
The average MHI of the ten communities (combined) in Kent and Sussex counties alone,
is $45,731.
The $60,354 MHI of the two communities (combined) in New Castle county hovers just
above the Delaware MHI of $57,599.
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SOURCES: Population: http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/10/10001.html Unemployment Rate: http://www.bls.gov/ro3/delaus.htm (See ATTACHMENT F)
Median Household Income: http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_10_5YR_B19013&prodType=table and http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/10000.html
6. Evidence of leveraged funds and/or in-kind contributions
Because this training is so vital to our state, and because it is being offered at a critical time
(“down” economy, record-high unemployment), it is important to note that the DEDO has
committed to provide 42% of the funding required to deliver these services, which are critical
technical services (entrepreneurial and retailer training, Ecommerce, group retailer training), new
initiatives (“pop-up” project), and opportunities for a more expanded slate of training and
breadth of services that DEDO would NOT be able to provide without USDA assistance.
USDA’s proposed assistance would account for 58% of the total project budget.
Further, while the targeted “recipient” towns have human capacity and desire to receive these
services, they do not have funding to pay for them, and therefore would not be able to
Status Town County Population
Unemployment Rate
Median HH Income
Designated Main Street Delaware City
New Castle 1,695
7.3
$53,229
Aspiring Main Street Designation Delmar
Sussex 1,579
8.2
$34,740
Designated Main Street Dover
Kent 36,047
7.7
$46,195
Aspiring Main Street Designation Georgetown
Sussex 5,113
8.2
$42,905
Aspiring Main Street Designation Harrington
Kent 3364
7.7
$44,974
Designated Main Street Milford Kent/Sussex 8,103
7.7/8.2
$44,982
Aspiring Main Street Designation Millsboro
Sussex 2,694
8.2
$46,045
Aspiring Main Street Designation Milton
Sussex 2,017
8.2
$41,076
Designated Main Street Middletown New Castle 18,871
7.3
$67,500
Designated Main Street Rehoboth Beach
Sussex 1,264
8.2
$66,250
Aspiring Main Street Designation Seaford
Sussex 7,146
8.2
$36,250
Aspiring Main Street Designation Smyrna
Kent 8,087
7.7
$53,896
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independently undertake them without the USDA RBEG assistance, which is further enhanced
by the DEDO funding.
To summarize, the DEDO has committed to providing $12,200 toward the requested $16,800
from USDA (for a project total of $29,000), which represents an approximate 2:3 match.
* IMPORTANT NOTE:
If USDA RBEG funds are available in excess of what is requested within this application,
DEDO would be willing to engage 1 additional town for the “pop-up” initiative for every
$2,000 USDA RBEG funding (beyond above requested amount), in which would be matched
by DEDO funds of $1,000, for up to three towns.
Thus, DEDO could engage up to three additional towns in the pop-up initiative, for an
additional $6,000 in RBEG funds, which would be matched by a total of $3,000 in DEDO
funds. Thus six towns would be engaged in the pop-up initiative.
7. Project Budget to show detailed line item breakdown and all sources of funding
TRAINING Target Date DEDO Funding match
RBEG
Funding
SMALL BUSINESS/ENTREPRENEURIALTRAINING:
* New initiative “Pop-ups” incubator concept (concept training to targeted towns, merchant training, engagement of three towns/marketing of concept, one-on-one assistance to selected businesses, assistance toward interior decoration – paint, carpet to prepare one space in each town for occupancy; town/property owner would share cost of rent for three months)
Launch July 1, 2012
3000 6000
Kauffman FastTrac Entrepreneurial Training June/July 2012 500
Retailer training by national retailing expert Fall 2012 2000 2100
3 Day eCommerce Training for small business owners November 2012 2000 2000
REVITALIZATION TRAINING:
Feature Presentation (2 proposed) Sept/Oct 2012 Feb/March 2013
1200 1200
Main Street: Basic or Advanced Training (2 days, once/year) Jan/Feb 2013 1000 2000
National Main Streets conference (New Orleans, LA, Proposed March 2012) Registration for 6 @ $500 ea and travel stipend for 6 @ $500 ea March 2013
3000 3000
TOTAL
12,200 16,800
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8. Commitments from Businesses to include start-up and expansion
There are limited funding commitments necessary from businesses for DEDO’s training
opportunities, as, DEDO has made a commitment to offer high-quality training a low or no
monetary cost to recipients who are already struggling in this protracted economy. The primary
investment is that of time for training. For instance, approximately 40 hours are required for
FastTrac; 20 hours for Ecommerce; 5-10+ for group/one-on-one assistance, plus time to
implement initiatives.
9. Applicant’s experience in administering economic and community development
Programs
Since 1994, the DEDO’s program or downtown revitalization has effectively assisted downtown
revitalization/ economic development efforts in seventeen of Delaware’s historic downtowns.
Further, representatives of over half of Delaware’s Commercial Business Districts have attended
the many training opportunities that DEDO has provided over the past three years.9
DEDO has successfully administered several USDA Rural Development grants previously,
including RBEG, RBEG, and RCDI, totaling in excess of $300,000. Through these funds, not
only were services offered that were beyond the scope of DEDO’s typical ability to provide, but
USDA funding advanced the creation of a very comprehensive “menu” of retention and
recruitment services that specifically focuses on downtown business development: recruiting,
retaining and expanding businesses; building stakeholder consensus; stabilizing “at risk”
merchants, and addressing vacancy issues in rural towns. An overarching principal of these
services is to build local capacity of local towns’ volunteers and staff. (See also “Objectives”
under Item 1. Need, goals and objectives, Page 4, for outcomes of most recent USDA-funded
activities.)
The coordinator for the proposed project will be Diane Laird, State Coordinator for Downtown
Delaware, a program of the DEDO. Ms. Laird has been with the Delaware Economic
Development Office, and dedicated solely to the Main Street State Coordinating position since
1998. She currently serves on the Executive Committee of the National Trust Main Street
Center, and represents the northeast region. Ms. Laird and speaks regularly on topics of
revitalization (business development, vacancy reduction, organizational and strategic planning,
etc.) and has been a speaker at the National Main Streets conferences for the most recent five
years. In May 2009, Ms. Laird was awarded the Delaware Award for Excellence and
Commitment in State Service for “Innovative Ideas in Downtown Revitalization, including
9 The mission of the Downtown Delaware program is “to provide Delaware’s historic commercial districts with the
tools to promote economic stability in business and workforce and to retain and enhance their downtown’s unique
sense of place.” The mission of the Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO), is also a natural fit with the
program by assisting small and minority-owned businesses, promoting and developing tourism, attracting new
investors and businesses (both within and beyond the state), and increasing employment opportunities, with
particular emphasis toward developing small-, women-, and minority-owned businesses. Thus the mission and
purpose of DEDO’s method for “helping downtowns to help themselves” is compatible with state planning
objectives and also supports USDA Rural Development’s objective to help “rural individuals, communities and
businesses obtain the financial and technical assistance needed to address their diverse and unique needs.”
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Entrepreneurial and Small Business Development”. Diane holds a Masters Degree in Urban
Affairs & Public Policy from the University of Delaware (June 2000).
SCOPE OF WORK
(a) The specific purpose for which grant funds will be utilized, i.e., Technical
Assistance, Revolving Fund, etc.
The “Downtown Revitalization and Business Assistance Project – 2012/13” (DRBAP – 2012/13)
is primarily a program of technical assistance, with an additional minor component of downtown
commercial property decoration (paint, carpet, etc.) to prepare several interiors (i.e.; paint,
carpet) of downtown properties for commercial occupancy.
NOTE: Exteriors of buildings will not be affected.
(b) Timeframes or dates by which action surrounding the use of funds will be
accomplished.
June 1, 2012 to March 31, 2013
(c) Who will be carrying out the purpose for which the grant is made (key personnel
should be identified).
See PROJECT NARRATIVE, Item 9, for DEDO staff dedicated solely to the proposed project.
The proposed training will be delivered by qualified consultants that are experts in the nation on
the topics of business development in rural communities. (See Attachment D, Page 19)
(d) How the grant will be accomplished.
The proposed training will be provided by qualified consultants (For details See Item #8.), both
to groups of downtown merchants, as well as to staff/volunteers of said Main Street programs
and Commercial District Affiliate committees.
All activities will be completed within the ten month time-frame of June 1, 2012 – March 31,
2013.
Because the DEDO believes that the primary component of a healthy downtown is a strong
business mix, approximately two thirds of the technical services/training and initiatives will
address economic development and entrepreneurial/small business components. Nevertheless,
training in business development is not offered to the exclusion of other important elements such
as creating a strong local revitalization program (strategic planning and organizational
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development), a pleasing downtown environment (design), and image promotion, marketing and
advertising (promotions). Thus the remaining third of the proposed project addresses the latter.
In previous years, Downtown Delaware has delivered one-on-one and group retailer training and
consultation to +/- 250 downtown business owners. Similar services are targeted and needful,
particularly in this contracted economy. In addition, statewide group training events that stand
to directly and indirectly overall economy of the downtown are proposed whereby small business
owners stand to become more profitable and downtowns in general stand to benefit by enhancing
their assets, and creating more business-friendly environments. Topics could include business
recruitment incentives and packages, more efficient licensing/inspections procedures, cross
promotion of businesses, promoting downtown via new community brands, etc.
Specific training will include:
A new DEDO program: Development of a “pop-up” program, a strategy of establishing
temporary community incubators as a “stepping stone” to establishment of fully
operational, permanent businesses. This program would include technical assistance by a
qualified retailing expert to ensure success of the temporary business concept, and then
sustainability of the business in the downtown, as well as investment of funds toward
decorating a space and readying it for occupancy.
NOTE: this “pop-up” program also addresses vacancy-reduction
Kauffman FastTrac training for entrepreneurs: New Venture or Growth Venture
programs
Small business/retailer workshops (by nationally known retailing expert)
Ecommerce: Sales and Marketing for entrepreneurs
Nevertheless, training in business development is not offered to the exclusion of other important
elements that are vital to addressing critical, emerging needs of towns and facilitation of strong
downtown revitalization programs. These topics follow the Main Street model, and will be
selected from areas of focus, such as:
creating a strong local revitalization program (strategic planning and organizational
development)
ensuring strategies to create an aesthetically-pleasing downtown environment (design)
image promotion, marketing and advertising (promotions)
See matrix below from among which topics for Feature Presentations, etc. would be
selected:
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ORGANIZATION: PROMOTION:
Mission Development/Vision Planning
Strategic Planning/ Work Planning/ Board Retreats
Fundraising & Public Relations
Membership & Volunteer Development
Promotion and Marketing
Developing Marketing Plans
Retail Advertising
Tourism Development
Image Development/Branding
Special Event Planning
Community Branding
DESIGN: ECONOMIC RESTRUCTURING/BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT:
Downtown physical assessments and planning for
targeted design assistance
Renewable energy; energy efficiency, and sustainable
design
Design assistance: on-site consultations with
downtown property and business owners, with
committee personnel in training “learn by doing.”
Preparation of façade drawings/specifications
Streetscape and Landscape Design
In-Fill Construction
Establishing Design Guidelines
Managing Parking and Traffic
Working with Local Zoning and Building Codes
Business retention, expansion, and recruitment training
Matching prospective businesses with vacant downtown
buildings
One-on-one confidential business consultations
Strategic Retail Merchandising Plans
Developing Building and Business Inventory
Real Estate Development
Retail Merchandising
Incubator Development
Community Initiated Development
Upper Story Housing
Downtown Commercial Vacancy Reduction
(e) Documentation regarding the availability and amount of other funds to be used in
conjunction with the funds from the RBE/Television Demonstration program.
See Attachment E, Page 23.
(f) Does this grant involve a revolving fund?
No, this project does not involve a revolving loan/fund.
(g) Project Budget
In summary, the requested USDA RBEG funds total $16,800, and the DEDO will provide a
match of $12,200, for a total project budget of $29,000.
As per “IMPORTANT NOTE” on Page 10 regarding additional RBEG funds, if available:
DEDO could engage up to three additional towns in the pop-up initiative, for an additional
$6,000 in RBEG funds, which would be matched by a total of $3,000 in DEDO funds. Thus
six towns would be engaged in the pop-up initiative.
See PROJECT NARRATIVE, Item #7.
15
ATTACHMENT A
MAP IDENTIFYING 12 COMMUNITIES TARGETED FOR SERVICES
16
ATTACHMENT B
The National Trust Main Street Model
The Main Street model is utilized nationally and internationally and is widely considered a
“best practice” in downtown revitalization. The DEDO’s program of downtown revitalization
follows the National Trust Main Street Center (NTMSC) methodology, a proven model for
downtown/community economic development that is particularly effective in rural communities.
The Main Street Four Point Approach simultaneously addresses the four points of:
1. Organization
2. Design
3. Economic Restructuring or (Business Development)
4. Promotion.
The Main Street model is designed to build public and private philosophical and financial
support, thereby drawing upon local opportunities and building community self-reliance
that leads to economic development of the community’s commercial district. Local
designated Delaware Main Street programs are grassroots-driven, comprised of public and
private partners, and are led by one paid manager. Delaware Commercial District Affiliates
reflect the Main Street model, but are a smaller scale, with more limited resources, and are
comprised of a committee that is generally volunteer-driven by local stakeholders, with formal
representation by at least one representative of the municipality.
Delaware’s Main Street programs have enjoyed longevity of as much as 15 years and rarely
disintegrate once they commence, thus sustainability of purpose is implied with adherence to
the Main Street model. Training by staff of the NTMSC and its affiliated consultants ensures
that practices taught are current, reasonable, and highly practical for use with downtown
professionals and lay persons (grassroots, volunteers) alike.
For more information:
http://www.preservationnation.org/main-street/about-main-street/
17
ATTACHMENT C
Delaware Emerging Technology Center: An Affiliate of Kauffman FastTrac
Offering These FastTrac Programs
FastTrac® NewVenture™ - For aspiring and early stage entrepreneurs
Jun 18 — Jul 26, 2012 Learn More
FastTrac® GrowthVenture™ - To help existing entrepreneurs improve their business
Jun 18 — Jul 26, 2012 Learn More
See next page for descriptions…
18
FastTrac® NewVenture™ - For aspiring and early stage entrepreneurs
Jun 18 — Jul 26, 2012
The FastTrac New Venture program is for entrepreneurs, innovators and all serious applicants
looking to evaluate a business concept, start their own new business, or expand an existing
business that less than three (3) years old. The classes will meet every Monday and Thursday from
Noon to 4pm for five weeks. We are beginning to receive and review applications now.
However, please be aware that the Class schedule is tentative and has not been confirmed!
"Outstanding program. Excellent opportunity to learn/identify methods for success- To think like an
Entrepreneur- To weed out what isn’t working or working yet. To expand thought process to strategize
for growth and provide the tools to continue the vision."
"Entrepreneurs do not succeed alone. They need a network for success, experience, ways to learn
from others disappointments and successes…and tools/resources. This class is the 1st I have seen
which actually does that. It needs to be offered more often and to more people if you really want to
boost the economy."---FastTrac New Venture Graduates
FastTrac NewVenture, specifically for entrepreneurs in the early stages of business development,
provides the tools to develop your business concept, determine the viability of the business concept,
and outline the critical steps to a successful business launch.
FastTrac® GrowthVenture™ - To help existing entrepreneurs improve
their business
Jun 18 — Jul 26, 2012
The FastTrac Growth Venture program is for existing businesses who are looking to grow or expand,
that are at least 2 years old and have accrued at least $200,000 in revenues. The classes will meet
every Monday and Thursday from 5 to 9pm for five weeks. We are beginning to receive and
review applications now. However, please be aware that the Class schedule is tentative and
has not been confirmed!
"The course content and materials were very effective. The use of outside speakers was really
valuable. Online tools were great. Class Facilitators were really good. Small group activity was very
effective."
"Overall the course was great! The dialogue was very rich. It helped me see that I am on the right
page. I would recommend anyone that needs to grow or understand their own business to take this
course."
"Excellent, real world information. Inspiring."---FastTrac Growth Venture Graduates
Apply Now!
FastTrac GrowthVenture provides the tools and support to carefully review and evaluate important
aspects of your business, explore next stage growth and opportunity, and reshape your existing
business for future profitability and improved business performance.
19
ATTACHMENT D
Lauren Adkins, Assistant Director for Field Services, National Trust Main Street Center
Lauren Adkins began working for the National Trust Main Street Center in 1991. Her work at
the Center currently focuses on brand management, partnership development, and managing the
Center’s consulting services division, including marketing, staff supervision, budgeting, and
client relations. Ms. Adkins is a regular conference speaker and continues to provide consulting
and training services. She has worked with hundreds of communities in 38 states, plus the
District of Columbia, Canada, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Singapore. Ms. Adkins has served as a
faculty member at various Main Street conferences and workshops, speaking on topics such as
retail promotion, volunteer management, fundraising, market analysis, and strategic planning.
She has authored several articles for Main Street News and served as a guest lecturer for Catholic
University and George Washington University.
Ken Anderson, Director, Entrepreneurial and Small Business Support, Delaware Economic
Development Office
Ken Anderson has been with the Delaware Economic Development office since 2007 where he
created the existing core of Entrepreneurial and Small Business Development programs
including launching of the Delaware Emerging Technology Center (ETC) virtual incubator, the
ETC Boot Camp and Business Plan Competition, the ETC Secrets of Success Seminar Series, the
DEDO GrassRoots Plus Program, the Delaware Kauffman FastTrac Entrepreneurial Training
program for new and expanding businesses, as well as launching the first Governor’s
Entrepreneurial Business Conference where he acts as Chair, the Delaware Small Business
Summit focusing on minority and women owned businesses and Chair of two Delaware Base
Realignment and Consolidation (BRAC) conferences. Ken is also Chair of the Governor’s
Supplier Diversity Council. and a Board member of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce
Small Business Alliance Advisory Board and the Delaware Manufacturing Extension Partnership
Advisory Board.
A former Executive Vice President of a 25 year old family owned business Goeins-Williams
Associates, Inc. of Clayton, Delaware, Ken is a much sought after speaker on the “New
Economy”, Entrepreneurism and Small Business Support in the State of Delaware. In 2010, the
Delaware National Association of Women Business Owners awarded Ken the “Pioneer” award.
Ken is Board member of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce Small Business Alliance
Advisory Board and the Delaware Manufacturing Extension Partnership Advisory Board. Ken is
a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and attended Thomas Jefferson School of Law in
San Diego, Ca.
Todd Barman, Program Officer, National Trust Main Street Center
Todd Barman is a Program Officer with more than 17 years of experience in the development
field and more than 12 years firsthand Main Street experience. Todd's expertise in market
analysis is widely recognized. As a member of the Wisconsin Main Staff, he coordinated the
market analysis technical support service and led efforts to develop the nationally recognized
Downtown and Business District Market Analysis Toolbox. Since joining the National Trust
20
Main Street Center in 2006, he has conducted many local workshops on market analysis and
other economic restructuring topics. As a national thought leader, Todd convenes discussion
groups on ways to better approach market analysis and help communities put economic
restructuring principles into practice more effectively. Todd has in-depth experience teaching all
four points of the Main Street approach and has a degree in landscape architecture.
Jim Duffy, Main Street Manager, Cambridge, MD
Jim Duffy is the Main Street Manager, for Cambridge, MD, and has successfully led two pop-up
contests, the purpose of which is three-fold: engage property owners, reducing downtown
vacancy, establishment of new/aspiring entrepreneurs into business launch or expansion in the
downtown arena. Duffy has led several educational sessions at the National Main Streets
conference, the most recent on the topic of “Downtown Pop-Ups” in 2012 in Baltimore, and has
also trained at the DE/MD regional Revitalize! Conference, in Rehoboth Beach, DE September
2010. Previous experience includes journalism.
Rick Ferrell, Business Development Specialist; Principal, Retail Market Answers, LLC
Rick Ferrell is the principal of Retail Market Answers, LLC, (RMA) which specializes in
economic planning and implementation services in accordance with “smart growth” principles.
As such RMA targets appropriate business recruitment prospects (preferred by local stakeholders
and most likely to be sustainable based on prevailing economic conditions). RMA’s economic
planning extends to “business retention” considerations preserving or enhancing the growth of
those already invested in a community. RMA provides practical and “hands on” retail business
recruitment assistance for all of its strategic planning recommendations to public and private
sector clients, alike, which includes services to more than 35 communities throughout
Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. Rick has worked with Downtown Delaware for five
years and has worked in 90% of stated communities proposed in this application.
Donna Ann Harris, Principal, Heritage Consulting
Heritage Consulting Inc. is a certified woman-owned business in Pennsylvania and Delaware
that provides award winning consulting services and highly valued training for nonprofit
organizations and government agencies nationwide in three practice areas: downtown and
commercial district revitalization, historic preservation and non-profit organizational
development. Donna Ann Harris is the firm's principal and has more than twenty-five years of
experience as a program designer, trainer and manager in the historic preservation movement.
Anne Jacobs
Ann Jacobs has 20 years of real world experience developing, working in and working with a
broad range of businesses. It is this accumulated business history that makes her a valuable
consultant. Her experience is with companies in all stages of Growth: Existence, Survival,
Success, Take-off, Maturity and Exit Plans. In addition, she has helped struggling companies to
turn around and succeed again. Ann Jacobs has expertise in project costing and pricing, staff
training and development, project coordination, customer service, team building, contract
negotiations, and financial management.
21
Margie Johnson, President, Shoptalk
Margie Johnson, highly acclaimed speaker, trainer, author, and consultant, equips entrepreneurs
with the knowledge and skills that lead them to higher profitability and performance. Margie’s
thirty-year career as an entrepreneur and business expert has given her the experience to develop
customer-centered strategies and solutions that work. These strategies have given thousands of
businesses the competitive edge needed to survive and thrive. Margie has a cadre of local and
national accolades under her belt. She has received coverage in The Virginian- Pilot, The
Washington Post, Women’s Wear Daily Specialty Stores Newsletter, at the National Retail
Federation, and on WHRO Public Television and NBC’s Today Show. Margie received her B.S.
from East Carolina University and has completed postgraduate work at the Management
Development Institute at the University of North Carolina.
Diane Laird, State Coordinator, Downtown Delaware, a program of the DEDO
Diane Laird has been with the Delaware Economic Development Office since 1998, and has
specialized in downtown revitalization using the Main Street model. She currently serves on the
Executive Committee of the National Trust Main Street Center, and represents the northeast
region. Ms. Laird and speaks regularly on topics of revitalization (business development,
vacancy reduction, strategic planning, etc.) and has been a speaker at the National Main Streets
conferences annually since 2008. In May 2009, Ms. Laird was awarded the Delaware Award for
Excellence and Commitment in State Service for “Innovative Ideas in Downtown Revitalization,
including Entrepreneurial and Small Business Development”. Diane holds a Masters Degree in
Urban Affairs & Public Policy from the University of Delaware. (June 2000)
Ben Muldrow, Principal, Arnett Muldrow Ben Muldrow provides community branding and marketing strategies for Arnett Muldrow &
Associates. He is a talented graphic artist who specializes in community branding and identity
packages. Ben has developed branding systems for over 150 communities in more than 20
states. Ben has served on Charrette teams for the National Trust for Historic Preservation for
projects in Macon, Georgia, Arkansas Delta, Central Kentucky, Southeastern Ohio and Detroit,
Michigan and provides ongoing consultation to clients all over the southeast.
Kathy LaPlante, Program Officer, National Trust Main Street Center
Kathy La Plante joined the National Trust Main Street Center (NTMSC) staff as a Program
Officer in May of 2007. She has worked in the Main Street field since 1989. Ms. La Plante
works with organizations throughout the U.S. and has primary contract responsibilities to the
New Mexico, Oakland County, Michigan, Arkansas, Delaware, Virginia, Maryland, Wisconsin,
and Oregon Main Street Programs. Prior to joining the NTMSC she served as the Director of the
New Hampshire Main Street Center, from 1996 to 2007. She was responsible for initiating the
New Hampshire statewide, nonprofit Main Street Program, and providing comprehensive
downtown revitalization technical assistance to twenty-three designated communities. From
1989 to 1996, Ms. La Plante was the Executive Director of the Chippewa Falls (WI) Main Street
Program. In 1996, under her direction, Chippewa Falls was a recipient of the Great American
Main Street Award, recognizing it as one of the top five Downtown revitalization programs in
the country. Prior to working in downtown revitalization, Ms. La Plante spent 12 years in retail
management at Oakwood Pharmacy & Gifts in Eau Claire, Wisconsin and, for ten years, as
manager of Spurgeon’s Department Stores in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa.
22
Norma Miess, Program Officer, National Trust Main Street Center
Norma Miess comes to the National Main Street Center’s team of program officers after
successfully leading the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin, one of the largest and
most diverse nationally accredited Main Street programs in Illinois. Under her leadership, Elgin
went from completing designation in 2001 to achieving Premier community status. The program
received over 20 state and local awards for improvement projects, business development efforts,
successful events, marketing initiatives, and strong partnership development. Norma’s
multicultural background is a solid asset in understanding the increasingly diverse communities.
She has been a regular national conference speaker sharing strategies to utilize the assets of
multicultural presence. Before moving her family to Texas, Norma was honored with a
Proclamation from the City of Elgin for her leadership support to the Elgin community.
Don Shandler, President, Shandler Associates
Dr. Donald Shandler is president of Shandler Associates, a consulting firm in Milton, Delaware,
specializing in the development of managers, leaders and professionals. He has extensive
experiences working with corporate, government and nonprofit organizations. And, now as a
resident of Milton he also volunteers his management, training and development and nonprofit
leadership experiences to community organizations.
Other consultants
Other consultants may include additional Program Officers of the National Trust Main Street
Center and local, regional, national consultants (often affiliated with the NTMSC) who are
recommended by one of the above and/or those who are locally and/or nationally recognized for
their expertise.
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ATTACHMENT E
(Letter from DEDO Director confirming funds available.)
April 16, 2012
MEMORANDUM
TO: Bernice Whaley
Deputy Director
FROM: Sheri Bullock
Fiscal Administrative Officer
RE: DEDO Matching Funds for USDA RBEG (Rural Business Enterprise Grant)
The Delaware Economic Development Office has agreed to match all funds received from the
USDA RBOG up to a total of $12,200.
Main Street Funds $12,200, from fiscal year 2012 funds
If the time of the grant award is beyond June 1, 2012, the DEDO ensures that funds in the
amount of $12,200, will be committed to the project from the Tourism/Main Street Line
Item allocation from the State Legislature.
Should you have any questions or concerns please contact me.
/sb
24
ATTACHMENT F
Unemployment Rates by County in Delaware, February 2012
Unemployment Rates by County in Delaware, Not Seasonally Adjusted
Area February 2011 February 2012(P) Net Change
United States 9.5 8.7 -0.8
Delaware 7.9 7.5 -0.4
Kent County, DE 8.9 7.7 -1.2
New Castle County, DE 8.7 7.3 -1.4
Sussex County, DE 9.6 8.2 -1.4
(P) Preliminary
NOTE: Rates shown are a percentage of the labor force. Data refer to place of residence. State and
county data for both the current and prior year are subject to revision early in the following calendar
year.
Last Modified Date: April 12, 2012
SOURCE: http://www.bls.gov/ro3/delaus.htm