Thoughts and ramblings...

With anything 'collectible', a lot can be done for developing the marketplace. Instead of getting out while you can, stay in it because you love it and do stuff to grow the hobby and reap the benefits.
Organize C&V events in your community like swaps, rides, workshops, shows, etc...
Get C&V projects in the schools, youth organizations, etc...
Use social media to connect and bring C&V people together.
Promote larger regional and national events like Eroicas....but include events where participants don't need a week long recovery..

I am involved in the C&V car hobby and there are a lot of similarities in the market forces at play.
Markets are driven by supply and demand.

Promote the 'cool' factor, not just the utilitarian aspect cycling. (save that for modern machinery)

Tap into peoples vanity and their desires to have what other people don't or wish they did.

I have been to a car show just about every weekend this spring/summer....have not seen a bike show (yet) where I live. It would be easy and welcomed by those downtown shops that always seem to want events to increase foot traffic for their businesses...heck, maybe do them in conjunction with the car events? (one of the reasons I like C&V bike stuff is it is very similar to the satisfaction I get from the car hobby, but SOOOO much more affordable)

Increase the demand.