ough times call for innovative solutions. That's why the Greater Meredith Program decided to organize a marketing seminar for downtown merchants. The subject, “Million $ Marketing on a Shoestring Budget” was geared to help retail businesses create effective marketing strategies, improve customer care, evaluate consumer buying patterns, and expand market share. Jeanie Forrester, former Executive Director of the Greater Meredith Program points out, “If we don't care about our downtowns, you lose the heart and soul of the community.”

A vibrant downtown is the gathering place of the community. It often reflects the values and friendliness of its residents. That's why the Greater Meredith Program was eager to support successful merchants, who in turn, can help attract additional flourishing businesses. “If we don't care if our downtown disappears, we lose retail choices. We don't have places where we can walk with our kids or socialize with our neighbors,” says Forrester.

The seminar, open to any community merchant, was run by retail expert Barbara Wold, who has worked with many communities throughout the country and internationally who are revitalizing to boost their economic viability. The Greater Meredith Program Board sponsored the event.

A $3,000 Technical Assistance Grant from CDFA, and support from a local inn and spa defrayed costs. Events like this keep the heart and soul of the Meredith downtown strong.

Jeanie Forrester, former Executive Director of the Greater Meredith Program, believes, “It we don’t care if our downtown disappears, we lose retail choices.”

Project Facts:

Total amount of CDFA grant	$3,000
Purpose of grant	Teach cost effective marketing to local businesses
Goal	Support a vibrant Meredith downtown
Total project cost	$5,400
CDFA Funding Source – CDFA Technical Assistance Grant