40 Years of Service
Over the past four decades, we have pioneered countless groundbreaking capital projects, continuously advocated for small businesses and residents, and have devoted ourselves to enhancing Downtown Baltimore through our steadfast focus on clean, green, and safe initiatives.
We owe our achievements to the unwavering support of our esteemed partners, stakeholders, and the businesses that have continuously demonstrated their dedication to our great city day after day, year after year. It is with profound gratitude that we aim to gather these invaluable supporters.
The History of Downtown Partnership
1983
DPOB was created on December 3, 1983 by a group of engaged business owners and corporate stakeholders. Laurie Schwartz, DPOB’s first President, led the organization from a small shop in a borrowed office space to a thriving membership organization and advocacy organization. From the beginning, this organization excelled at meeting in the moment and being nimble, creating public-private partnerships to meet the needs of the community.
1990
By 1992, the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore was punching above its weight and needed to create a new structure to manage the growing organization. The 90’s also brought on a time when stakeholders were advocating for increased marketing and economic development initiatives. Still under Laurie Schwartz’s leadership, DPOB was seasoned at creating agile solutions for the Downtown district.
2000
DPOB saw new leaders take on exciting new projects at the turn of the century. Michele Whelley took over as President and brought with her a keen sense of economic development and focus on recruitment and retention. Kirby Fowler took the helm a few years later and followed suit, adding to the priorities: transportation issues, retail strategy, and creating a mixed-use urban core. The Downtown was facing a shift – businesses moving east with new developments and incentives. Keeping the core strong remained the organizations top priority
2020
During a period of uncertainty brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, we ushered in the new decade with a change in leadership and a strategic realignment of our priorities. Shelonda Stokes took over as President and the team got to work creating economic programs to address the pandemic retail shake-up. Since then, the focus has been on stabilizing Downtown with immediate needs while reimagining Downtown Baltimore for the next 40 years
Partner Stories
Honoring 10 Visionary Businesses Driving Downtown’s Progress — A 40 for 40 Story
From advancing healthcare and education to fostering economic development and sustainability, the dedication of these partners is helping to drive positive change across the Downtown Baltimore community.
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Dynamic Allies Elevating Downtown — A 40 for 40 Story
From advancing healthcare and education to fostering economic development and sustainability, the dedication of these partners is helping to drive positive change across the Downtown Baltimore community.
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Partners in Progress: Celebrating the Community Impact of Baltimore’s Key Contributors — A 40 for 40 Story
As the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore continues its mission to foster a thriving, dynamic urban environment, we celebrate the collaborative spirit and transformative impact of our esteemed partners. These organizations share our commitment to making Downtown Baltimore a vibrant hub for living, working, and investing.
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The Heart of Baltimore: 10 Businesses and Partners Shaping Downtown’s Future — A 40 for 40 Story
In alignment with Downtown Partnership of Baltimore’s mission, we are proud to spotlight ten businesses and partners whose commitment to Downtown Baltimore mirrors our own.
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