American's Main Streets 25K Contest

Downtown Bend is Vying for $25K Cash Prize in National Contest

On February 25, Independent We Stand, a national small business movement, kicked-off its fourth annual America’s Main Streets contest to help consumers, small business owners and Main Street organizations reward a deserving Main Street with $25,000 in cash and sponsor-related prizes. Downtown Bend in Bend, Oregon is among this year’s nominees.

“Our Independent We Stand America’s Main Streets contest shines a light on the pride business owners and communities take in their Main Streets,” says Independent We Stand co-founder Bill Brunelle. “We know small businesses on these Main Streets help them thrive and have a measurable economic impact. This contest is a chance to share those stories with people from coast-to-coast.”

Why Downtown Bend?

Downtown Bend, established in 1903, is the heart of the Bend, Oregon community. The Downtown Bend Business Association (DBBA) has revitalized the Downtown district to become one of the leading tourist destinations in Central Oregon. Our Downtown area plays an important and unique role in the economic and social development of Central Oregon. Downtown Bend is where commercial, cultural, and civic pursuits are concentrated. This concentration facilitates business, learning, and cultural exchange. The DBBA is dedicated to creating a space where all members of our community are welcome, where entrepreneurial dreams can be pursued, where we can connect to our history, and where our community members and visitors alike can create memorable moments. We understand that a healthy downtown is key to a strong community.

What will we do if we win 25K?

We are looking to develop our Downtown as a Holiday destination where people from all over would make it their family tradition to come ski at Mt. Bachelor, Bend, stay at one of our local hotels, and walk the streets of Downtown enjoying the festive atmosphere. If we were to win this award, all of the funds would go directly to creating this Holiday experience. Receiving this award would help us be able to offer a Central Oregon destination for families and friends to create meaningful holiday traditions. Click on the Document below to download our Downtown Bend Holiday Plan.