As New Bern’s designated Main Street organization, Swiss Bear drives initiatives that enhance the vitality of Downtown New Bern. Through its four standing committees—Economic Vitality, Organization, Promotion, and Design—Swiss Bear plans and executes programs outlined in its annual work plan. These committees include Board Members, funding partners, and downtown business owners, property owners, employees, and residents.

Swiss Bear is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit led by a Board of Directors representing key stakeholders in Downtown New Bern. The organization also maintains active roles on the Municipal Service District (MSD) steering committee and the New Bern Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Swiss Bear receives operational funding by managing MumFest, New Bern’s three-day downtown festival which is held annually during the second weekend of October, as well as through sponsorships, grants, donations, and investment revenue.

New Bern is proud to be one of more than 1600 communities across the country participating in the Main Street movement, including over 80 in North Carolina. The most effective programs are those built on strong public private partnerships, bringing together local government, property owners, and business leaders to shape the future of downtown.

Founded in 1979, Swiss Bear was created to lead the revitalization of downtown and the redevelopment of New Bern’s waterfront. Just a year later, New Bern was selected as one of five North Carolina towns to participate in the state’s inaugural Main Street program. Over time, the area served by Swiss Bear has grown to include the Broad and Pollock Street corridors through First Street, an expanded footprint that still centers on the heart of Downtown New Bern.

Interested stakeholders are welcome to serve on a standing committee. Swiss Bear also organizes short-term working groups to address specific issues. If interested, please contact Karen Sullivan.