BECOME A MEMBER

Creating, establishing and maintaining your small business with quality service and attention to detail has taken a lot of hard work and dedication.  Placing that small business in Downtown Lincoln, the heart of the community, was an excellent choice.  Downtown Lincoln is an enchanting place rich in history, which promises unique shopping and dining experiences.  Now that you have done the hard part of getting your business up and running, join the Downtown Lincoln Association.

  • As an Merchant Member, you have the opportunity to influence DLA decisions by exercising your general voting rights on matters affecting the local business environment and community growth. Stay engaged in our communication channels and actively participate in various activities, events, and initiatives.

  • Merchant Members have priority access to reserve booth space at DLA events and secure advertising placements before Associate Members, giving them a competitive advantage in highly sought-after event spaces.

  • Merchant Members can participate in exclusive marketing initiatives tailored for storefront businesses, such as featured placements at merchant-focused events or activities that are designed to drive foot traffic and local engagement.

  • Merchant Members benefit from discounted rates on marketing services and booth fees for DLA-sponsored events, reducing their costs for participating in community marketing efforts.

Merchant Membership

The Merchant Membership is designed for businesses with a physical storefront in Lincoln. In addition to all the benefits available to Associate Members, Merchant Members gain exclusive perks that are strategically crafted to enhance their visibility and provide priority access to key events and marketing opportunities. These benefits are tailored to help storefront businesses stand out in the community and maximize their engagement at high-profile events.

$150.00
Annual Membership

Associate Membership

The Associate Membership is designed for individuals, non-profits, service clubs, and businesses without a storefront, such as those operating virtually or from home. This membership provides key benefits that enhance visibility and community involvement

$75.00
Annual Membership

  • As an Associate Member, you have the opportunity to influence DLA decisions by exercising your general voting rights on matters affecting the local business environment and community growth. Stay engaged in our communication channels and actively participate in various activities, events, and initiatives.

  • Associate Members are featured on the DLA website, giving them a valuable online presence and boosting their visibility in the local business community. With over 5,000 user engagements per month, your listing will reach a wide audience of local Lincoln residents and businesses.

  • Celebration events: Associate Members are invited to a variety of celebration events, including new business openings, milestone recognitions, holiday celebrations, and local community festivities, providing opportunities to participate and promote their organization.

  • Members can attend regular networking events hosted by the DLA, allowing them to build relationships with other businesses, local leaders, and potential collaborators, expanding their professional network.

  • Associate Members have access to participate in sponsored marketing and business booths during select DLA events. While not guaranteed for every event, these opportunities allow them to engage with the community and promote their business in person.

WHY JOIN THE DLA?

The Downtown District Association (DLA) plays a multifaceted role in its community, encompassing various functions such as marketing the Downtown District, event promotion, scholarship sponsorship, community activity support, networking facilitation, and advocacy for community members.

COMMUNITY

The DLA spearheads initiatives and advocates tirelessly for the betterment of our community. Through collaborative efforts and steadfast dedication, the DLA champions various projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents and businesses alike. From supporting local businesses to promoting safety measures and fostering economic growth, the DLA's commitment to community-driven initiatives is unwavering. By actively engaging with stakeholders and leveraging its influence, the DLA continues to be a driving force in shaping a vibrant and prosperous community for all.

EVENTS

The DLA organizes a series of popular events annually, aimed at attracting both visitors and residents to Downtown. These events draw in thousands of attendees, consequently boosting foot traffic to local shops and restaurants.

NETWORKING

Networking within the DLA extends beyond cross-marketing opportunities, encompassing advocacy for economic initiatives and support for business growth. Through collaborative efforts, we advocate for policies and programs that foster economic development in the community. Additionally, the DLA provides resources and marketing opportunities, such as the Lincoln-Opoly, to showcase local businesses and stimulate economic growth.

LEADERSHIP

We partner with the City of Lincoln and Chamber of Commerce in marketing downtown area through initiatives such as wayfaring signs, the recognition of new businesses, and providing strategic input on the Economic Development Committee (EDC), among many other collaborative efforts.

POSITIVE CHANGES

The DLA's collaboration with the City of Lincoln underscores its commitment to fostering a secure and family-friendly downtown environment. This commitment is evident through a diverse array of initiatives, including advocating for positive changes like the Sign Ordinance, enhancing parking facilities, and promoting pedestrian safety. Additionally, the DLA's beautification projects, such as installing lighting and planting and maintaining live flowers, contribute to enhancing the downtown area's visual appeal and overall ambiance. These efforts not only benefit the businesses and visitors, but also the residents who call downtown Lincoln their home.

CHAMPIONED ADVOCACY

The DLA plays a pivotal role in the ongoing Streetscape Project Phase II, serving as the primary source of input, championing the initiative. Discussions during DLA meetings include regular status reports and decision points, where the organization's influential input helps shape the project's direction.

MARKETING

Some of the ways the DLA markets Downtown Lincoln and its businesses include social media, direct mail, brochures, our website, and through various events.

  • Operation Yellow Ribbons

  • July 4th Parade and Fireworks

  • Letters to Santa

  • Snow and Santa in the Plaza

  • Lincoln Showcase

  • Rods and Relics Car Show

  • Lincoln Wine Fest

  • Chocolate Lover’s Ball

  • Clay Day

  • Lincoln Hometown Christmas

  • Halloween Downtown Trick Or Treat

  • Kick The Dust Up

  • Downtown Food Trucks

ABOUT THE DLA BOARD

The Downtown Lincoln Association (DLA) is a diverse group of merchants, property owners, city officials, organizations, and residents united by a shared commitment to keeping Downtown Lincoln vibrant. We focus on everything from the appearance and success of local businesses to historical preservation and community involvement, all to create a welcoming space where families can gather and make lasting memories.

Our board members are dedicated volunteers, all of whom are small business owners living in Lincoln. As community members with families and deep roots in the area, they are passionate about serving and enhancing the place they call home.

BOARD & COMMITTEE MEMBERS

  • William Wong

    DLA President
    Lincoln Family Martial Arts Academy

  • Randy Johnson

    DLA Vice President
    Lincoln Gun Exchange

  • Helen Johnson

    DLA Secretary
    Finance & Governance
    Lincoln Gun Exchange

  • Kim Watt is the Treasurer

    Kim Watt

    DLA Treasurer & Co-Chair of the Event Committee

  • Larry Goodrow

    Co-Chair of the Membership Committee
    Lighthouse Mortgage

  • Elise Gustafson

    Chair of the Event Committee
    Maggie May’s Gifts on the Blvd

  • Kristie Baker

    Co-Chair of the Membership Committee
    Kirstie Baker’s Acres

  • Open Position

    Board Member

  • Alex Phung: Zora Nova Agency

    Alex Phung

    Chair of the Communication & Marketing Committee
    Zora Nova Agency