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.
2026 Executive Committee
President: Zach Mathern- JLG Architects
Vice President: Anne Cleary- Hiccups
Secretary: Samantha Schwab – INSight Partners
Treasurer: Rachel Freidt – Bismarck Tire Center
2026 Directors
Caroline Crary: Bismarck Magazine Corp.
Tim Conover: Blarney Stone
Taylor Daniel: Daniel Companies
Claire Gerber: BNC National Bank
Steve Zottnick: Bravera Bank
Shane Johnson: Country Financial Insurance
Staff
Dawn Kopp- Chief Executive Officer
Kate Herzog- Chief Operating Officer
Maria Brezny- Special Projects Coodinator
Molly McLain- Grants and Program Development
Caitlin McDonald- Special Project Coordinator (summer 2026)