In March 2008, Sidney received National Accredidation as a Main Street Community from the National Main Street Center. Only 20% of Main Street communities nation-wide receive this accredidation each year. Sidney Main Street Director, Megan McGown says, "We work for this accredidation every year, and this year we scored a 10 out of 10 on the evaluation and were the only community in Nebraska to do that!" McGown credits all the positive activity that is happening in downtown Sidney to the dedicated and committed downtown property owners. "Downtown Sidney's transformation is taking place because of the property owners' motivation to continue to make downtown Sidney a vibrant shopping district".

There are two vibrant businesses in downtown Sidney that are looking to transition to new ownership. One, an established restaurant with a booming customer base and the other business is an appliance and gift store that has been in business for over 20 years in downtown Sidney.  There are also two incentive programs for downtown retail development, including one rental assistance program and a facade improvement grant program.  For inquiries please email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it