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
Understanding Tax Increment Financing (TIF): A Critical Tool for Michigan Downtowns
One of the most important, and often misunderstood, tools available to Michigan communities is Tax Increment Financing (TIF).
Read MoreMarlette DDA Selects Kevin Burdick of Scrapes Designs for Michigan Agricultural Commodities Mural Project
Marlette, MI – March 19, 2026– The Marlette Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is excited to announce the selection of Kevin...
Read MoreDowntown South Lyon Launches Vibrant New Website to Connect Community and Promote Local Businesses
South Lyon, MI — The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is proud to announce the launch of DowntownSouthLyon.com, a new website...
Read MoreDDA Executive Director Sault Ste. Marie
The City of Sault Ste. Marie is seeking an Executive Director for the Downtown Development Authority and Main Street Program.
Read More2025 Achievements
230 Members
6 New MiPDM Participants
3 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
300+ Event Attendees
MDA Blog
News & Blog ArchiveUnderstanding Tax Increment Financing (TIF): A Critical Tool for Michigan Downtowns
One of the most important, and often misunderstood, tools available to Michigan communities is Tax Increment Financing (TIF).
Read MoreHow to Cultivate Strong Michigan Downtowns
Strong downtowns don’t happen by accident. They are intentionally cultivated, strategically supported, and collectively championed....
Read MoreADA Compliance for Your Website is Now a Priority
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) finalized a rule under ADA Title II (codified in 28 CFR Part 35) that requires state and local governments—including...
Read MoreWhy Michigan’s Downtowns Need to Have a Voice
Downtowns are more than just business districts. They are the heart of our communities. But strong downtowns do not happen by accident....
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