2026 Main Street Maryland Conference

REGISTER NOW

Maryland’s many Main Streets are the heart of our vibrant and welcoming communities. The 2026 Main Street Maryland Conference, organized by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA), will bring together community leaders, economic development professionals, small business advocates, and local partners for two days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration focused on strengthening Maryland’s downtowns.

By registering, you give MEDA permission to use your photo/video if captured during the conference.

The 2026 Main Street Maryland Conference is no longer seeking speakers for this year’s conference. If you’re interested in speaking at a future conference, please leave your email below. For those who have submitted a proposal, we will be making decisions by mid-June.

On The Way Experiences

On your way to Hagerstown on Monday, October 5, 2026, from 1 to 4 PM, explore one of the three optional “On The Way Experiences”. These community tours will highlight successful downtown revitalization efforts in Maryland. Registration will be limited and is on a first come, first served basis.

Middletown

Stop in Middletown to explore a community in the midst of thoughtful transformation. Hear how recent downtown revitalization efforts have balanced new housing and business development with a deliberate commitment to heritage tourism, historic preservation, and the National Road story that defines the town’s identity. Join local leaders, business owners, and partners as they share how Middletown is leveraging its historic assets while intentionally growing its ecosystem to strengthen long-term economic vitality.

Sykesville

Visit Sykesville, recipient of the 2026 Great American Main Street Award, the highest honor in the Main Street movement. Explore this nationally recognized downtown and hear directly from the local leaders, volunteers, business owners, and community champions whose vision, partnerships, and perseverance transformed Sykesville into a model for community-driven economic development and revitalization.

Westminster

Explore historic Westminster to explore how arts, innovation, and redevelopment are transforming the west end of Main Street. Learn how the Carroll Arts Center helped spark revitalization, hear about Project Restore 2.0’s impact on vacant properties, and tour Carroll County’s only makerspace, Exploration Commons. Gain insight from local leaders, business owners, and community partners, then enjoy light local fare while connecting with fellow attendees.

Hotel Choices

We’ve done the work for you! Please be certain to book with one of these trustworthy, vetted hotel partners. Special rates are available for the nights of October 5 to October 8:

Plan Your Trip to Hagerstown

Explore local attractions, restaurants, arts and culture, outdoor recreation, shopping, and more with Visit Hagerstown. Whether you’re looking to discover the area’s history, enjoy the downtown experience, or find things to do before and after the conference, Visit Hagerstown is a great resource for planning your visit.

Sponsor the 2026 Main Street Maryland Conference

2026 Sponsorship Opportunities

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When

Tue, Oct 6 - Wed, Oct 7

Where

Hagerstown, MD

,

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Conference Sponsors

The 2026 Main Street Maryland Conference Sponsors

MAIN LEVEL

BRONZE LEVEL

The City of Frederick, Department of Economic Development

Community Development Network of Maryland

Downtown Redevelopment Services

Mahan Rykiel Associates Inc.

Tri County Council of Western Maryland

Registration

2026 Main Street Maryland Conference