About Wilmington Downtown, Inc. (WDI)
The Organization
WDI was originally formed as D.A.R.E. (Downtown Area Revitalization Effort) in 1977 as a public-private partnership between the City of Wilmington, New Hanover County and the private sector. Our organization has had many successes over the past 34 years. Today, the six main areas of focus for WDI are business recruitment, business retention, quality of life, developer services, fundraising and public outreach.
WDI is partially funded by the City of Wilmington and New Hanover County, but relies heavily on private donations. Our organization is able to operate with the support of our local community partners. WDI is a registered 501(c)(3) organization and all donations are tax-deductible as allowed by the IRS. We encourage you to invest in your downtown; all persons donating $50 or more are considered partners of WDI. Click here to learn more about our partnership program.
Mission & Vision
Mission: To promote the economic growth and development of downtown Wilmington
Vision: Downtown Wilmington is the culturally vibrant and economically prosperous center of the southeast region, and is recognized nationally for its outstanding quality of life
Standing Committees
Fundraising/Development Committee
Statement of Purpose: To plan and implement the financial development of the organization through fundraising, community education projects, corporate sponsorship development, annual contribution campaign and other outreach programs to generate the needed revenue to support WDI’s budget.
Public Relations and Outreach Sub-Committee
Statement of Purpose: To help create and maintain a positive image of WDI to the general public and targeted audiences, including the news media, downtown stakeholders, and local government. The committee will advise the Fundraising/Development Committee and the President/CEO in developing an annual marketing plan and recommend potential promotional opportunities.
Economic Development Committee
Statement of Purpose: To add to the value of downtown by recruiting new businesses and residents. Vision: We add value through strategic marketing, business development, access to capital, the collective resources of our board members, advocating for a safe and clean downtown, encouraging activities and events that enhance foot traffic downtown, and facilitating business growth and development.
Business Retention Sub-Committee
Statement of Purpose: To retain existing residents and businesses in the downtown area. Vision: Retention will improve with individual meetings between business owners and board members, networking opportunities, and consistent work toward improving the satisfaction level of visitors, businesses, and pedestrians in the downtown area.
Planning Committee
Statement of Purpose: To serve as a liaison between the private and public sector to facilitate growth and development downtown; to advocate for appropriate infill and redevelopment; to monitor and give feedback to government agencies which make decisions that affect downtown.
Central Business District (CBD) Services Committee
Statement of Purpose: To monitor and identify opportunities to improve the overall quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors in downtown Wilmington. Specifically, the committee will address issues and propose solutions related to enhancing the safety, vibrancy and aesthetics in the downtown area.
If you are interested in joining a committee, please contact Ashley Hanners at (910) 763-7349 or email ashley@wilmingtondowntown.com.