Michigan Downtown Association to host Annual Conference in Detroit

The Michigan Downtown Association (MDA), a state-wide, non-profit organization, will host its Annual Conference at Detroit PAL (Police Athletic League) Thursday and Friday, November 4-5. Detroit PAL is located at 1680 Michigan Avenue in Detroit. A virtual and in-person attendance option is offered for the 2-day event.

Founded in 1980, the MDA boasts 185 members representing communities from Marquette to Monroe, Port Huron to South Haven, and everywhere in between. The MDA strives to help strengthen Michigan downtowns by providing advocacy, education, networking opportunities, and resources to its members that consist of downtown development authorities, principal shopping districts, cities, businesses, non-profits, and individuals. 

“Now more than ever, it is important that downtown management organizations receive timely and relevant resources and materials,” said Dana Walker, director of the MDA. “A strong downtown resonates throughout the region and often drives the economic development of the community,” she continued.

The Annual Conference, “Downtown Revival, 2021. Yes! We Are Back!” will offer keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities designed to inspire and educate downtown managers and stakeholders.

Scheduled to speak during the Conference are Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II; Kevin Johnson, president and CEO of the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation; Rich Bardelli, construction manager for Michigan Central; Elena Madison, director of projects for Project for Public Spaces; and Dan Carmody, president, Detroit’s Eastern Market Corporation.

Other session topics offered during the 2-day event include Façade Grants, Downtown and County Relations, Placemaking, Public Art Funding, Public Finance and Policy, Downtown Development, and Community Engagement.

“Over the last year and a half, downtown managers have not only continued the work of economic development, placemaking, and event planning, but they have become the ‘Go-to’ person regarding small business grants and loan forgiveness, safety protocols, and whatever else was thrown their way,” Walker said. “The Annual Conference is just one example of how the MDA provides downtown managers resources to tackle the ever-changing small business climate and community challenges,” she explained.

“I think one of the greatest benefits of MDA membership and/or attending one of our events is the networking opportunities made available,” Walker said. “Downtown managers and stakeholders can communicate, share ideas, and ask questions to community leaders across the state while also learning from experts in the field and vendors specific to downtown management,” she continued.

The MDA will host a Meet and Greet on Thursday, November 4, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Iridescence located in the MotorCity Casino Hotel, 2901 Grand River Avenue. Attendees of the Annual Conference are invited to attend the event and complimentary appetizers and a cash bar will be available.

For additional information regarding the Michigan Downtown Association or to register for the MDA Annual Conference to be held November 4-5, contact Dana Walker at 248-838-9711 or visit www.michigandowntowns.com.