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Detroit Ambassador Program

Ambassadors are easily recognized by their distinctive yellow jackets and are trained to offer hospitality assistance to residents and visitors. Ask them for help or tips on how to make the most of your experience throughout Downtown Detroit.

What is the Ambassador Program?

The BIZ Ambassadors are often visitors’ first point of contact and a critical resource for residents and businesses. This 100+ member team (90 percent of whom are Detroit residents) is ready, willing, and equipped to assist anyone with directions, restaurant recommendations, emergency support, and more.

If you’d like to learn about and apply to be a BIZ Ambassador, please send us an email at [email protected]. 

Detroit BIZ Ambassador Kudos
from the Community

Learn More About Richard

Additional Kudos

I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation for the work your team does to keep downtown Detroit clean, welcoming, and beautiful.
Shari H.CPA
Thank you for keeping Detroit clean.  Mr. Richard Miller is a great ambassador to the city and your mission.   Just wanted to drop a note to say I appreciate the program and the folks who are out there doing the work.   Thank you for helping to make our city beautiful!  
Nancy B.
I wanted to write in to say thank you for all your team does for downtown. I was taking my dogs out this morning in Grand Circus Park and was lucky enough to meet Richard. He was a delight to talk to first thing in the morning and was a consummate professional. He ensured everything was good for me in the park and we had a quick conversation. He is doing a great job and I wanted to point it out. Thank you again. 
Kevin P.
I just wanted to take a minute to praise Mr. Miller. My mother and I were looking for the best way to get to Cadillac square and we came across Richard and since he looked approachable we asked him for directions. He was very friendly and knowledgeable about the city. He walked us to the corner and even educated us on the Wayne County Building.  Keep hiring people like Richard W. Miller. 
Robyn B.
Yesterday my husband and I were excited to visit the Ralph A. Wilson park and while there had the pleasure of meeting Richard and his coworkers.  They were friendly and enjoyable to talk with about the new space along the riverfront.
Sue D.
Mr Sims is very friendly and a delight to talk with.  He was cleaning the tables at Campus Martias as my friend and I were sitting down chatting. He was working hard and had a smile on his face. We were happy to meet him that day!
Deana B.
I'm a new Detroit resident that recently moved into a building just north of Mt. Elliott Park. I ran into Richard Miller on a walk this morning and wanted to express my gratitude for his kindness and service.  We spoke briefly on his route. He expressed his happiness to be out on a pleasant day, was energized and amiable, and seemed truly appreciative of the chance to strike up a conversation while working hard. He's clearly an asset to your team and the city, and I'd be very thankful if you could send along that message when you have a chance.
Zachary H.

History of the Ambassador Program

The program started out in 2006 as Clean Downtown and then later evolved into the Ambassador program for the Downtown Detroit Business Improvement Zone (BIZ) in 2014.

BIZ Ambassadors transform the appearance and experience in Downtown Detroit. The Ambassadors bring a friendly personality, expert knowledge of the city, and passion to keep their city clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone. Their presence brings a service like no other in Detroit.

A provision in the Downtown Detroit BIZ legislation allows the DDP and BIZ to leverage BIZ services to Detroit neighborhoods outside of Downtown on a fee-for-service basis. This allows all neighborhoods and partners throughout the city to benefit from the professional efficiencies of the BIZ infrastructure, programs, and expertise. 

News & Insights

BIZ Ambassador Highlights

Meet BIZ Ambassadors and hear how they positively impact Downtown patrons and the overall perception of Detroit.
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Downtown BIZ Ambassadors at Work: What Makes a Great Ambassador

July 30, 2026

Downtown BIZ Ambassadors at Work: What Makes a Great Ambassador

Downtown Stories

Each Downtown Detroit BIZ Ambassador cares deeply about Detroit and takes pride in the work that they do to keep our community vibrant and thriving.  In the final installment of . . .

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Downtown BIZ Ambassadors at Work: Keeping Downtown Safe

July 13, 2026

Downtown BIZ Ambassadors at Work: Keeping Downtown Safe

Downtown Stories

A welcoming Downtown begins with a safe Downtown. In the third installment of our Downtown BIZ Ambassadors at Work video series, we spotlight the dedicated Downtown Detroit Business Improvement Zone (BIZ) Ambassadors . . .

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Downtown BIZ Ambassadors at Work: Keeping Downtown Clean

June 30, 2026

Downtown BIZ Ambassadors at Work: Keeping Downtown Clean

Downtown Stories

A vibrant Downtown starts with a clean one. In the second installment of the Downtown Detroit BIZ Ambassadors at Work video series, we’re highlighting the everyday services funded by Downtown . . .

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New Video Series: Downtown BIZ Ambassadors at Work – Welcoming

June 9, 2026

New Video Series: Downtown BIZ Ambassadors at Work – Welcoming

Downtown Stories

The Downtown Detroit Business Improvement Zone (BIZ) is proud to launch its new “Downtown BIZ Ambassadors at Work” video series dedicated to the people who keep Downtown Detroit clean, safe, and welcoming. The inaugural . . .

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Derek Brown – 2025 BIZ Ambassador of the Year

December 19, 2025

Derek Brown – 2025 BIZ Ambassador of the Year

The People Behind the BIZ Ambassador Team

Meet Derek Brown, our 2025 BIZ Ambassador of the Year. Each year, the Downtown Detroit Business Improvement Zone (BIZ) recognizes one Ambassador whose work exemplifies the heart and mission of . . .

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Jimmie Howard – BIZ Ambassador Highlight

September 29, 2025

Jimmie Howard – BIZ Ambassador Highlight

The People Behind the BIZ Ambassador Team

Jimmie Howard has been on the Downtown Detroit BIZ Ambassador team for 10 years. As a Team Leader, he is always ready with a game plan and also recognizes he . . .

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