Retail businesses are essential to the life and vibrancy of downtown, but attracting and retaining local, small businesses can be challenging in uncertain and turbulent economic times. In recent years, many communities have taken creative approaches in adapting to rapidly changing retail trends to ensure retail spaces are filled and stay open. Panelists will share regional best practices on how to attract and retain local businesses, maximize the use of ground-floor commercial space, better connect shoppers to local retail through wayfinding, and create unique community events in an effort to revitalize downtowns.