Programs & Initiatives

The EDBA’s work is carried out through many avenues, like providing resources and information to new and existing Downtown businesses, advocating and collaborating with all orders of government and partner organizations, creating and supporting public events across Downtown, marketing and promoting Downtown businesses, and a range of other economic development activities.

Here are a few highlights of our signature events, programs and services.

Downtown Safety & Vibrancy Summit – In June 2023, we held the second annual gathering of the downtown community focused on learning, collaboration, problem-solving, and progress on the issues of safety & vibrancy in Edmonton’s downtown. Stay tuned for the highlight video.

Watch the 2022 Safety & Vibrancy Summit promotional video.

Core Care Services – In its ongoing efforts to help build a vibrant downtown and support downtown businesses, the Edmonton Downtown Business Association created Core Care. These teams work to improve safety, cleanliness and the overall downtown experience. Learn more about the Core Care services.

Blooming Boulevards – At no cost to members and the community, the EDBA fully funds Blooming Boulevards, Downtown’s summer beautification program. May through to September, 140 planters and hanging baskets are placed on Downtown sidewalks, and also watered and maintained by the EDBA.

Downtown Spark – An arts festival showcasing mega-size pop-up art installations designed by international and local artists. Learn more about Downtown Spark.

Downtown Dining Week – Downtown Dining Week is an annual celebration of Downtown Edmonton’s vibrant restaurant scene. Taste specially created menus, ranging from two to four courses, from the city’s most exciting restaurants. It’s an unforgettable culinary celebration not to be missed. Check out Downtown Dining Week annually in the spring.

Downtown Winterval – Downtown’s annual holiday festivities presented by the Edmonton Downtown Business Association. The inaugural festival had sleigh rides, art installations, dining deals, beer gardens and concerts headlined by TALK, Rare Americans and Rich Aucoin. Downtown Winterval will be back in winter 2024.

Edmonton Downtown Annual LuncheonImagine Downtown: Through Fresh Eyes featured a panel discussion between visionary downtown leaders and thinkers from across Canada who brought reflections and advice about the greatest challenges, strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities we’re facing in Downtown Edmonton. Watch the Imagine Downtown discussion on our YouTube channel.

Downtown Edmonton Streetfront Retail Report 2023 – An in-depth analysis of streetfront retail units within Downtown Edmonton, a snapshot of the state of streetfront retail vacancies, and insights into the types of businesses that are thriving and those that are facing challenges. Read the report