Vicksburg Main Street has an opportunity to shine in the national spotlight and pick up $25,000 in cash and prizes. But it’s up to voters to decide if Vicksburg will come out on top.

Independent We Stand, a national small business movement, kicked off its fourth-annual America’s Main Street contest to help consumers, small business owners and Main Street organizations reward a deserving Main Street with $25,000 in cash and sponsor-related prizes.

Vicksburg is among this year’s nominees.

“Our Independent We Stand America’s Main Streets contest shines a light on the pride business owners and communities take in their Main Streets,” Bill Brunelle, Independent We Stand co-founder, said. “We know small businesses on these Main Streets help them thrive and have a measurable economic impact. This contest is a chance to share those stories with people from coast-to-coast.”

Downtown Vicksburg’s natural setting is a gorgeous backdrop for a vibrant array of events and festivals, lively nightlife, and tourist attractions, supported by a vibrant cultural and performing arts community. The contest prize would help Vicksburg Main Street enhance parking, update signage and accommodate the growing downtown community.

“Vicksburg’s Main Street, businesses, residents and the city are ‘Building a Better Vicksburg’ by continuing to improve and enhance the downtown experience,” Kim Hopkins, executive director at Vicksburg Main Street, said. “Our downtown and tourism numbers have seen major growth over the last five years. Winning this award will be a tremendous stepping stone for continued improvements, a huge honor, and a pat on the back for all of those that play a role in making Vicksburg great.”

The first round of voting in the contest began as soon as Vicksburg Main Street was nominated and runs through April 21. All nominations and voting take place on MainStreetContest.com.