As Board President of MAIN STREET MARION, I have led the following achievements:

Major Grant Awards and Funding

USDA Revolving Loan Fund

Main Street Marion successfully secured funding from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a revolving loan fund. This critical financial resource has provided accessible capital to local businesses and entrepreneurs, fostering economic development and job creation in our community. The revolving loan fund serves as a sustainable financing mechanism to support small business growth and commercial development in Marion for years to come.

Innovate Alabama - Harris Technology Hub

Through a strategic partnership with Innovate Alabama, Main Street Marion has established the Harris Technology Hub in Marion. This initiative represents a transformative investment in our community’s digital infrastructure and economic future. The Harris Technology Hub will provide technology training, workforce development programs, entrepreneurship support, and broadband connectivity improvements to bridge the digital divide and create new economic opportunities for Perry County residents.

Delta Regional Authority Strategic Plan Grant

Main Street Marion was awarded a Strategic Plan Grant from the Delta Regional Authority (DRA), enabling us to develop a comprehensive roadmap for our community’s future. This grant supports strategic planning efforts that will guide Marion’s economic development initiatives, infrastructure improvements, and community enhancement projects in alignment with regional development goals.

Strategic Partnerships

The Conservation Fund - Economic Impact Assessment

Main Street Marion has partnered with The Conservation Fund to conduct a comprehensive economic impact assessment for our community. This collaboration will provide valuable data and analysis to inform future development decisions, identify economic opportunities, and ensure that growth strategies align with our community’s values and environmental sustainability goals.

Sweet Trails Alabama - Trail Feasibility Study

Main Street Marion serves on the steering committee with Sweet Trails Alabama to conduct a feasibility study for an innovative walking and biking trail connecting Selma to Marion, extending to Greensboro, and onward to Newbern. This regional trail system will promote outdoor recreation, heritage tourism, health and wellness, and economic development across multiple Black Belt communities. The trail will showcase our region’s rich history and natural beauty while creating new opportunities for tourism-based businesses.

University of Alabama Honors College Partnership

Main Street Marion has continued with an established and valuable collaboration with the University of Alabama Honors College program. Through this partnership, talented university students work directly with our organization to assist Marion with community involvement initiatives, research projects, and civic engagement activities. This relationship brings fresh perspectives, academic expertise, and enthusiastic volunteer support to our community development efforts while providing students with meaningful real-world experience.