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, Small Business Saturday Neighborhood Event, ND Downtown Conference, Downtowners Annual Art & Wine Walk, Beer & Boutiques, Downtown Development Days, 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 workgroups. Staff includes a CEO, COO. The Board of Directors meet the second Wednesday of each month.
2023 Executive Committee
President: Steph Smith- Fleck’s Furniture & Appliance
Vice President: Anne Cleary- Hiccups/White Lace Bridal
Secretary: Suzann Sweeney- BNC National Bank
Treasurer: Dave Ehlis- Bravera Bank
2023 Directors
Samantha Schwab: Bain Agency
Peter Pomonis: Co-Schedule
Jake Axtman: AGL Landscape Architects
Weston Dressler: Sanford Health
Rachel Gietzen: Bismarck Tire Center
Zach Mathern: JLG Architects
Melissa Slapnicka: Toasted Frog
2023 Advisor:
Taylor Daniel: Daniel Companies
Staff
Dawn Kopp- Chief Executive Officer
Kate Herzog- Chief Operating Officer
Maria Fleck- Special Projects