About
In 1906, an early Chamber of Commerce was formed in Bismarck. Many changes were made with all the growth and industry of the city, first in the early 20’s and then again in the mid 50’s. This grandfather organization became the beginning of what is now The Downtowners and also the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce. In 1985, the association incorporated as the Downtowners and is represented by a board, staff, and coalition of member businesses.
Our mission at the Downtowners is to serve and support the growth and development of downtown Bismarck to benefit our members and the entire community. We are a 501c6 non-profit organization that promotes our member businesses and the city center as the vital core of the community. This idea is the cornerstone of all of the efforts of our organization.
The Downtowners put on a number of community events such as: Street Fair (formerly part of Folkfest), The Rip-Roarin Ribfest, 1st Thursdays, ND Downtown Conference, Downtowners Art & Wine Walk, member mixers, speakers, seminars, and more. We advocate for the city center and attend all pertinent government meetings.
Downtown Business Association of Bismarck has a Board of Directors and working committees. Staff includes an Executive Director and Assistant Director.
Executive Committee
President: Dale Zimmerman- Peacock Alley American Grill and Bar
Vice President: Jonathan Holth- The Toasted Frog
Secretary: Kristy Rempher- BNC Bank
Treasurer: Jeff Japel- New York Life
Directors
Amber Bernhardt- Dakota Stage Theater
Brett Gurholt- KLJ Engineering
David Mason- American Bank Center
Blake Preszler- JLG Architects
Justin Walsh- Todaymade
Chuck Watson- Sam’s Club
Kent Anderson- Town Square Media
Wendy Anderson-Berg- Bismarck Parks & Rec
Staff
Dawn Kopp- Executive Director
Kate Herzog- Marketing & Assistant Director
