A- A+

About Downtown

Downtown DSM USA

DSM USA is the regional identifier for Greater Des Moines (DSM). Downtown DSM USA is the identifier for the region’s core — Downtown. The Downtown DSM USA identifier is the result of significant quantitative and qualitative research that shows the identifier closely ties Downtown to the region, therefore making both identifiers stronger. Downtown DSM USA is shown through research to communicate that Downtown is fresh, contemporary, active, cultural and diverse. 

Downtown DSM USABusinesses are encouraged to use Downtown DSM USA messaging on their websites and in their communications. Click here to download the Downtown DSM USA graphic. To request additional file types, contact Derek Lippincott.

Learn more about the DSM USA regional identifier here. To help spread the word and show your support and passion for DSM, consider becoming a DSM USA Ambassador.

View the Downtown DSM Board Members here. 

Downtown Events and Downtown Events Group 

Major community events like the Downtown Farmers' Market, including The Winter Market, World Food & Music Festival, Holiday Promenade and Out to Lunch are dedicated to ensuring the continued growth of Downtown Des Moines (DSM). These hallmark events along with pop-up activations bring more than one million people to Downtown DSM annually, creating unique and vibrant experiences for all who attend.  

Downtown DSM, Inc., leads efforts to drive development, placemaking and events in Downtown DSM. It promotes Downtown through integration of retail, restaurants, businesses, housing, events and placemaking. The Downtown Events Group, an affiliate of Downtown DSM, Inc. is a 501c3 affiliated with the mission of enhancing the vibrancy of Downtown Des Moines through the creation, elevation and activation of arts, culture and humanities events and community placemaking.  

Downtown Events Group Sponsors
  • Bankers Trust 
  • Bravo Greater Des Moines 
  • Capital Vacations 
  • City of Des Moines 
  • Clear Choice Exteriors 
  • Dotdash Meredith 
  • EMC 
  • Federal Home Loan Bank 
  • First Interstate Bank 
  • Hy-Vee 
  • IHMVCU Credit Union
  • Iowa Speedway 
  • Landus 
  • Metronet 
  • MidAmerican Energy Foundation 
  • Nationwide 
  • Operation Downtown 
  • Prairie Meadows 
  • Principal 
  • Ruan Foundation 
  • UnityPoint Health – Des Moines 
  • University of Iowa 
  • Veridian Credit Union 
  • Vero 
  • Voya 
  • Weller Brothers 

Downtown Economic Development Council

The Downtown Economic Development Council is part of the Greater Des Moines Partnership. This board is populated by a diverse collection of Downtown DSM’s leading figures in culture and business.