Our programs support the Third Ward Community

 Emancipation Avenue Main Street (EAMS) is a culture-based economic driver, that supports Historic Third Ward entrepreneurs in achieving their goals for equitable and sustainable community development. The goal is to catalyze commerce along Emancipation Avenue and the surrounding community, leading to the preservation and revitalization of what was once the epicenter of small business and commerce for African Americans in the City.  

Emancipation Avenue Main Street (EAMS) is culture- based economic driver dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Historic Third Ward, while protecting and revitalizing the community. As a Nationally designated Texas Main Street we are raising the visibility and viability of locally owned and operated businesses.

Our Work 

1. Celebrate and reflect on the rich cultural heritage of the Historic Third Ward
2. Actively promote independent shops and service providers in the Historic Third Ward.
3. Help Businesses stay competitive through workshops, networking events, policy initiatives, and advocacy work.
4. Educate consumers on the benefits of supporting community owned and operated businesses.

 Are you a ready to take your business idea to the next level? Whether you’re just getting started, have recently started operations or are a current business owner seeking additional training, the EEDC Resilient Entrepreneurship Program is a great opportunity to build and expand your knowledge.  Our model for neighborhood development operates on both the individual and community level, linking entrepreneurs to the support structure of an entire neighborhood while powering local economies through the energy and talent of residents. 

The 30 year old model includes a four pillar approach focused on 

• Business Training
• Business Lending 
• Technical Assistance
• Real Estate

The EEDC currently offers the Small Business Training classes in the Spring and Fall, our session format includes classroom instruction, one-on-one sessions, a pitch competition and graduation. The EEDC works with community-based organizations to provide additional training opportunities, access to capital and professional business consulting. 

Community engagement efforts are created with the term Ujima in mind in an effort "To build and maintain our community together and to make our Brother's and sister's problems, our problems and to solve them together." The goals of resident engagement are to protect vulnerable residents from displacement, promote social and political integration of economically marginalized residents, and to support the social mobility of economically disadvantaged residents.

Current Programs

Get Fresh in the Tre

College Send Off

Spring Break Reading Pays Program

Mother's Hope Walk and Support Group

National Night Out

Third Ward is Home Civic Club

Community Volunteer Program

Everybody Eats - Kirk Jackson's Vision