Downtown is a densely settled commercial core of a community that serves as its social and economic center.
Photo Credit: Downtown Muskegon, MI
Downtown acts as a key defining feature of a community's overall sense of place.
Photo Credit: Downtown Frankenmuth, MI
Downtown is multi-functional with places to shop, work, dine, live, worship, and enjoy a variety of cultural offerings.
Photo Credit: Downtown Farmington
Calls To Action
Strengthening Downtowns
Membership in 2026
230
New Members in 2026
5
Educational Opportunities in 2026
30
Increased MDA Facebook Reach
79.2%
Legislative Visits in 2026
80
Headlines
Northville Seeks DDA Assist Director
The Assistant Director is responsible for professional planning, marketing, administration and organizational support to the Executive Director...
Read MoreLooking for a Liquor License? There May Be a Smarter, More Affordable Way
If you're planning to open or already own a restaurant, bar, entertainment venue, or hotel in a downtown or redevelopment area in Michigan,...
Read MoreCelebrating the People and Projects That Shape Michigan's Downtowns
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: Great downtowns don't happen by accident.
Every vibrant streetscape, successful...
South Lyon DDA Economic Development Director
Job Responsibilities:
The ideal candidate handles the daily tasks of economic development and overseeing the Downtown Development...
Wade Trim Celebrates 100 Years
2026 Achievements
230 Members
6 New MiPDM Participants
8 In-Person DDA Board Trainings
Quarterly Legislative Update to Members
Retained Services of Midwest Strategy Group
70 In Person Legislator Visits
15 Business Associate Members
150+ Event Attendees
MDA Blog
News & Blog ArchiveLooking for a Liquor License? There May Be a Smarter, More Affordable Way
If you're planning to open or already own a restaurant, bar, entertainment venue, or hotel in a downtown or redevelopment area in Michigan,...
Read MoreCelebrating the People and Projects That Shape Michigan's Downtowns
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: Great downtowns don't happen by accident.
Every vibrant streetscape, successful...
Investing in People: Why Continuing Education Matters for Michigan's Downtown Professionals
Michigan downtowns are always evolving. Economic shifts, new community events, and legislative changes are just a few reasons why downtowns...
Read MoreMDA Launches Summer Social Campaign: #MeetMeDowntown
Michigan summers are made for downtown adventures, and we're inviting you to celebrate the places that make our communities special.
The...