Grow Your Business
Port has been such a welcoming and supportive community to start and grow my business. Main Street has been an integral resource in growing my business and a big reason we continue to attract many people downtown.
Are you ready to take your business to the next level?
Find resources to expand your business here in downtown Port Washignton
Financial Resources
Find grants, community loans, tax credits, crowd funding, etc.
Property Inventory
Coming soon! Find a new space to expand your business.
WEDC Resources
Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation runs the statewide Main Street program.
Main Street offers design assistance, free consultation and renderings, as well as promotional assistance through marketing plans/templates, merchandising, etc.
And they offer financial assistance through Kiva Loans, Historic Tax Credits, and more.
Building Design Resources
At Main Street, we value historic charm. Wisconsin’s Main Street program offers FREE design renderings and assistance to Main Street businesses. Historic preservation is one of the four Main Street pillars. Contact us for more information on design services.
Hiring Resources
Hiring Your First Employee
Step 1. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Step 2. Obtain a WI Withholding Tax ID
Step 3. Set up Records for Withholding Taxes
Step 4. Employee Eligibility Verification (I-9 form)
Step 5. Register with Your State’s New Hire Reporting Program (WT-4 form)
Step 6. Obtain Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Step 7. Post Required Notices
Step 8. File Your Taxes
Step 9. Get Organized and Keep Yourself Informed
Step 10: Apply Standards that Protect Employee Rights
Marketing and Advertising
Advertise through Port Main Street with business banners and the new website or advertise on Tourism’s VisitPortWashington.com!
Contact us for options.
Store Aesthetic
Wisconsin’s Main Street program runs an annual Mini-Makeover Contest. Pitch why your business needs merchandising help, and you could work with a merchandising consultant and receive matching funds to complete your makeover. Plus, this is excellent PR!
Port Main Street’s Economic Revitalization Committee is also available for free consulting sessions, including the topic of merchandising.
Contact us if you are interested in merchandising assistance.
Small Business Resources
Take full advantage of the Small Business Association www.sba.gov and their resources to grow your business.
And tap into the Small Business Development Center www.wisconsinsbdc.org for a more regional partner.
Maximizing Event Impact
Promotional events are hosted to bring customers or potential customers to your business. Make sure to capitalize on these events by:
– Hold a ribbon cutting or other unveiling during an event
– Plan giveaways/promotions and promote these through the event
– Collaborate with other businesses for cross-promotion
– Extended business hours during event
– Partner with a charity in lead-up to event
– Host a contest
– Offer product or service sampling
These are a roundup from several websites. Read more.
Consulting Session
The Main Street Economic Revitalization Committee is available and eager to meet with business owners seeking advice, brainstorming, and networking.
Here to help with topics, such as increasing foot traffic, merchandising, business expansion, etc.