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
Looking 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
In 2026, Wade Trim is celebrating a remarkable milestone—100 years of delivering infrastructure solutions for clients. The origin...
Read MoreWade 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...