About the Downtown Detroit Partnership

The Downtown Detroit Partnership aims to create a vibrant, thriving, and welcoming urban core for Detroit and the region. This is done through innovation, investment, philanthropy, and community building. 

DDP convenes corporate, philanthropic, and government partners to ensure collaboration, thought leadership, and advocacy on behalf of Detroit residents and local businesses and leaders.

Mission Statement

We cultivate economic and social impact in Downtown Detroit.

Vision Statement

Our North Star

A vibrant Downtown that unifies our city and strengthens our region and state.

Our Why

We love people, places, and a thriving community.

Core Values

  • Passion for Detroit
  • Stewardship
  • Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging
  • Excellence and Expertise
  • Integrity
DDP Team at Party in the Park (2024)

DDP Divisions

DDP Corporate

DDP takes an active role in development, planning, and placemaking decisions that increase the city’s economic prosperity. DDP also works with key stakeholders in the public and private sectors on multiple programs and projects to enhance Downtown’s appeal to businesses, residents and visitors. 

Downtown Detroit Parks

DDP operates, programs, and manages over 1,600 events annually in our nine signature Downtown Detroit Parks - Campus Martius Park, Cadillac Square, Cadillac Square East, Grand Circus Park, Capitol Park, Woodward Esplanade, Washington Promenade, Beacon Park, and Paradise Valley Park and Plaza. These award-winning public spaces attract residents, visitors, and businesses and serve as catalysts for new investments in Detroit.

Business Improvement Zone

The Downtown Detroit Business Improvement Zone (BIZ), established in 2014, is a special assessment district funded by Downtown Detroit’s property owners. The BIZ team works to create a clean, safe, and welcoming Downtown. The BIZ is led by a volunteer board of directors that contracts with the DDP to carry out its day-to-day operations.

The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) and Business Improvement Zone (BIZ) work together to create a vibrant Downtown Detroit that is welcoming to all.

The DDP is honored to have top business and community leaders serve on its Board of Directors. These leaders are committed to creating a vibrant Detroit.

DDP’s team is made up of unique experts in urban innovation, planning, marketing, and more that work together to bring serve the community year round.

DDP aims to keep diversity, equity, and inclusion at the center of their mission and vision by creating a culture that embraces the uniqueness of individuals.

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is a member-based nonprofit committed to creating a vibrant and world-class urban core. We invite you to become a member of the DDP.

The DDP works collaboratively with private, public, and philanthropic sectors to move the community forward. Check here for future opportunities to join us in this work.

News & Insights

Recent DDP News

Stay informed on the latest DDP news

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Downtown Detroit Partnership Announces Two Staff Promotions

February 14, 2025

Downtown Detroit Partnership Announces Two Staff Promotions

Experienced Leaders Elevated to Key Roles to Support Growth and Community Engagement DETROIT (February 14, 2025) – The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) announces the promotion of Soula Burns and Elise . . .

Downtown Detroit Hot Spots

February 12, 2025

Downtown Detroit Hot Spots

By Ericka Alexander Detroit People Mover Born and raised in the D, I’ve been in downtown Detroit for most of my career. Its constant evolution and growth never cease to . . .

List: Downtown Detroit Black-Owned Businesses

February 11, 2025

List: Downtown Detroit Black-Owned Businesses

The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) knows that Downtown Detroit is a rich, cultural hub that would not be the same without its Black-owned businesses. That’s why this Black History Month, . . .

2025 Annual BIZ Update to City Council

February 7, 2025

2025 Annual BIZ Update to City Council

For more than 10 years, the Downtown Detroit Business Improvement Zone (BIZ) has steadfastly worked to enhance Downtown Detroit, focusing on creating a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for everyone . . .

The DDP is the Constant Our City Needs

January 24, 2025

The DDP is the Constant Our City Needs

By Eric B. Larson Chief Executive Officer, Downtown Detroit Partnership The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) has always been at the forefront of progress in the city, but 2024 was a . . .

Downtown Detroit Hot Spots

January 23, 2025

Downtown Detroit Hot Spots

By DeShawn Singleton Program Manager, Safety and Infrastructure Born in raised on Detroit’s west side, I am a Detroiter through and through. I love everything about Detroit. I love the . . .

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