Downtown Mebane Development Corporation

The Downtown Mebane Development Corporation (DMDC) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the revitalization and preservation of historic Downtown Mebane, North Carolina. Founded in July 2022, it serves as the managing entity for Mebane's participation in the North Carolina Main Street Program.

Mission

The DMDC's mission is to facilitate the revitalization and preservation of Downtown Mebane through inclusive collaboration and partnerships. It aims to create a vibrant downtown area that serves as a hub for regional leisure and recreational activities, a center for community engagement, and a showcase for diverse small businesses, nightlife, and dining options.

Structure and Governance

The organization is governed by a board of directors comprising local business leaders and community representatives. The board includes members from various backgrounds, such as real estate, hospitality, community service, and local government. In addition to the board, DMDC operates several committees focused on specific areas, including:

• Leisure, Wellness & Recreation: Enhances outdoor spaces and promotes healthy living.
• Community Engagement & Inclusivity: Fosters inclusiveness and community connections.
• Public Arts: Supports local artists by incorporating visual arts into the downtown scene.
• Downtown Events: Organizes festivals and gatherings to energize the community.
• Historical Preservation: Protects Mebane's historical assets.
• Small Business: Supports local entrepreneurs and promotes nightlife and dining.

Activities and Initiatives

DMDC works to attract new businesses to the downtown area and provide resources for existing ones, including information on funding options and historic preservation. It also promotes community participation through volunteer opportunities in areas such as event planning and fundraising.

Impact

As part of the North Carolina Main Street Program, DMDC is part of a broader statewide initiative focused on downtown revitalization and economic development. In 2023, DMDC marked its first year as an organized Main Street Program, focusing on goal-setting, community feedback, and planning for the future of Downtown Mebane. The organization continues to work towards achieving a vibrant and sustainable downtown community.

[1] https://cityofmebanenc.gov/main-street/ [2] https://www.visitdowntownmebane.com/about-us [3] https://www.visitdowntownmebane.com/business-resources [4] https://www.commerce.nc.gov/about-us/divisions-programs/rural-economic-development-division/nc-main-street-rural-planning-center/main-street-program [5] https://www.visitdowntownmebane.com/sponsors