Downtown Development Association

The Downtown Development Association (DDA) of Grand Forks, North Dakota was established in 2013 by a passionate group of individuals dedicated to enhancing the downtown area. The founding members, including Jonathan Holth, Sarah Horak, Jill Proctor, Matt Winjum, Anne Zimmer, Nicole Johnson, Matt Norby, Emily Montgomery, Sadie Gardner, Matt Jacobson, David Thompson, Tim Knight, and Jason Schaefer recognized the potential for growth and improvement in the heart of their community.

Since its inception, the GFDDA has experienced significant growth and now boasts a full-time staff of four and a board of fifteen members. Additionally, the organization is supported by over 175 partners, sponsors, and Downtowners from Greater Grand Forks and East Grand Forks. Through various events and activities designed to attract visitors to the area and advocacy for urbanist principles that promote downtown expansion and development.

The DDA has played a pivotal role in attracting major investments to the community while providing numerous opportunities for residents. By bringing innovative ideas from concept to reality on the streets of Grand Forks/East Grand Forks and activating underutilized spaces within the downtown area.

Whether it's enjoying live concerts shopping at locally-owned stores dining at family-owned restaurants or simply taking advantage of outdoor recreational activities such as biking on the greenway - every individual contributes to the vibrancy of this amazing downtown area.

The mission statement of the Downtown Development Association is clear: "To advocate for, promote grow, and improve our downtown community." This mission serves as a guiding principle for all initiatives undertaken by DDA as they continue their efforts to revitalize and enhance this vital part of Grand Forks.