Downtowns are what typically give rural, suburban and urban areas life, providing a place to shop, socialize and connect with others, creating a sense of community for residents, but also making visitors feel welcome. Maintaining a strong downtown core can be challenging especially for rural regions struggling with outmigration of youth and others, an increase in big box stores and dollar stores, and the provision of necessary services. Downtowns are also typically the social centers of towns, offering spaces in which to connect with others, while also often holding historical and cultural significance in the area. This paper explores the content of the Thriving Downtowns investment playbook, translating the most meaningful content for EDDs, while showcasing how EDDs are playing roles in downtown revitalization in their regions.