Join our Team: Strategic Partnership Coordinator

Pictured above: Attendees at California Main Street Conference (Courtesy; Brittany App)

Scope of Work: Strategic Partnership Coordinator

Annual Budget for Contract: $10,000

Estimated Hours: ~200 hours (10 hours/week at $50/hour)

Job Description

Support the growth of the California Main Street network by cultivating strategic partnerships, engaging with existing and prospective member communities, and developing new fundraising methods to enhance the statewide programs’ capacity to support revitalization goals in cities across California. The ideal candidate is committed to local community revitalization, economic inclusion, and cross-sector collaboration. This position works closely with statewide partners, local Main Street leaders, funders, and government agencies to advance the Main Street Approach® across California.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Network Assessment & Strategy (Month 1)

• Conduct a brief assessment of existing partnerships, member levels, current revenue streams, and past fundraising efforts.

• Create a 12-month network development plan with identified priorities tailored to the organization’s needs, aligned with the 2026 California Main Street work plan.

2. Partner Network Development

• Identify and help build partnerships with economic development agencies, state agencies, workforce organizations, local governments, financial institutions, higher education institutions, and community-based organizations.

• Develop and execute a partner-engagement strategy that aligns with the mission, programs, and statewide priorities.

• Facilitate cross-sector collaboration designed to strengthen the network and improve access to resources for both the statewide program and local programs.

3. Member Recruitment & Community Engagement

• Assist the State Coordinator with identifying and recruiting downtown associations, BIDs, cities, counties, chambers, and allied members to participate in the organization’s programs, networks, and initiatives.

• Design outreach strategies and develop pitch materials, workshops, and events to attract new Main Streets and allied members.

4. Capital Access & Funding Connections

• Develop relationships with public and private capital providers—including CDFIs, banks, impact investors, philanthropic funders, community finance programs, and government grant programs.

• Research and prioritize relevant public and private grant opportunities which build capacity for both statewide program and local main streets (including community foundations and state/federal Main Street-related programs). 

• Draft or edit 3–5 grant applications or letters of inquiry (LOIs) during the first four months.

• Support staff or board in gathering necessary attachments and documentation for submissions.

5. Check-Ins & Reporting

• Participate in monthly check-ins with staff or executive committee to align efforts.

• Track partnership activities, member engagement metrics, and program impact.

• Submit a mid-year and end-of-year summary of progress, grant outcomes, and recommendations for future efforts.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders from local governments, small businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders.

• Understanding of California’s regional economic ecosystems, including agencies for economic development, small business support, workforce development, and community investment.

• Knowledge of the Main Street America and California Main Street programs, downtown revitalization, and historic preservation (preferred).

• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Proficiency with digital communication tools, CRMs, and Microsoft/Google productivity suites.

Success Indicators

• Growth and diversity of strategic partnerships.

• Increased program visibility and awareness.

• Stronger collaboration across statewide and regional economic development organizations.

• Increased recruitment and engagement of local Main Street programs.

• Expanded access to funding and resources for both statewide programs and local communities.

• Demonstrated impact on local revitalization efforts and program outcomes.

Position Details

• Employment Type: Contract

• Reports To: State Coordinator

• Location: Remote within California

• Contract/consultant role with flexible hours (project-based or retainer).

How to apply:
Send resume and a brief introductory email to californiamainstreet@mainstreet.org by Wednesday, March 18, 2026.