Downtown Bend Business Association: Social Media Promotion Guidelines

WHY DO WE HAVE SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDELINES?

To ensure equitable, engaging, and high-quality promotion of businesses within the Downtown Bend district, the DBBA maintains the following guidelines for how businesses are featured across our social media platforms.

How to get featured on Downtown’s Instagram

  • 1. Eligibility for Promotion

    Business must be located within the Downtown Economic Improvement District (EID) and be an active member of the DBBA.

    The business must have an active social media presence or website we can reference.

    Content submitted for promotional consideration must be current, accurate, good quality and professionally appropriate.

  • 2. Frequency of Promotion

    Standard Features: Each business may be featured no more than once per quarter across DBBA's primary social channels (Instagram), unless part of a larger campaign or event.

    Event or Campaign Highlights: Businesses participating in DBBA events (e.g., First Friday, Shop Small Saturday) may receive additional promotion as part of the event marketing schedule.

    Story Mentions: Businesses may be tagged in stories more frequently, especially for time-sensitive updates, community highlights, or reshared content.

  • 3. Content Quality Standards

    To maintain a consistent and professional brand image, promotional content must meet the following standards:

    Visuals: Images must be high-resolution, well-lit, and free from watermarks, clutter, or excessive text. DBBA may request alternative photos or choose not to post low-quality visuals.

    Messaging: Copy must be clear, concise, and aligned with the DBBA’s tone—community-driven, upbeat, and respectful. Avoid slang, negativity, or political commentary.

    Brand Alignment: Promotions should support the vibrancy and diversity of Downtown Bend and contribute positively to the district's reputation.

  • 4. Submission Guidelines

    Businesses may submit content for consideration via email or a designated submission form.

    Submissions should be made at least 7 business days in advance of the desired promotion date.

    Content should include all relevant details (event info, links, hashtags, etc.).

  • 5. Limitations & Discretion

    DBBA reserves the right to decline promotion of any content that does not align with these guidelines or the mission of the organization.

    Paid advertising or sponsored posts are not accepted unless part of a formal agreement.

    DBBA does not promote individual product sales (e.g., "20% off red shoes today") but may promote broader business happenings (e.g., "New summer collection now in store").

  • 6. Tagging & Sharing

    DBBA will make an effort to tag businesses in relevant posts and stories when possible.

    Businesses are encouraged to tag @visitdowntownbend to increase their visibility and our chances of resharing their content.

Our goal on social media is to highlight and enhance the Downtown Bend brand by celebrating the unique charm, historic character, and vibrant energy that make our district the heart of Bend. Through curated storytelling, engaging visuals, and intentional promotion of our local businesses, we aim to showcase Downtown Bend as a place where community thrives, creativity shines, and local businesses are the soul of the city.