"When people think about MainStreet, they often think about events, beautification, and promotions... and those things matter! But great downtowns also require strong businesses," said Stephanie Garcia Mullins, Executive Director of MainStreet DeLand Association. "The Downtown Business Academy is our next step: supporting the people behind our businesses. By creating opportunities to learn, connect, and grow, we're strengthening the foundation of our downtown and cultivating opportunity for the future."

Programming will focus on practical topics relevant to today's business owners, including operations, marketing, customer experience, financial management, workforce development, technology, leadership, and growth strategies. Educational offerings will be developed in collaboration with business owners and community partners to ensure programming remains responsive to the evolving needs of the local business community.

"Strong communities are built on strong local businesses. The Downtown Business Academy reflects our commitment to helping business owners gain the knowledge, skills, and connections they need to succeed. By investing in the people behind our businesses, we are strengthening DeLand's economy and supporting long-term growth." said Lou Paris, Director of Economic Development, Volusia County.

While the Academy's initial focus is supporting existing business owners, it also represents the first phase of a broader long-term effort to strengthen entrepreneurship, business growth, and economic opportunity throughout the DeLand community.

The Downtown Business Academy aligns with MainStreet DeLand's mission of nurturing the heartbeat of DeLand by supporting the business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who contribute to the city's unique character, economic vitality, and quality of life.

Additional details regarding programming, schedules, and participation opportunities will be announced in the coming months.

About MainStreet DeLand Association

MainStreet DeLand Association is a nationally accredited Main Street organization dedicated to nurturing the heartbeat of DeLand by preserving history, supporting local business, cultivating opportunity, and welcoming everyone into our Historic Downtown. As the steward of Downtown DeLand's economic vitality, historic character, and sense of place, MainStreet brings together businesses, residents, community partners, and local government to strengthen the downtown district and create opportunities for long-term community prosperity.

About Volusia County Economic Development

Volusia County Economic Development works to strengthen and diversify the local economy by supporting business growth, entrepreneurship, workforce development, and strategic investment throughout Volusia County.