About BID #21

A look down Wisconsin Avenue, with the Riverside sign in view.

What Is Milwaukee Downtown, BID #21?

The BID stands for Business Improvement District, and we’ve been around since 1998. Our job is to support the interests of the Downtown Milwaukee business community, funding specific initiatives that make these 150 blocks clean, safe, and welcoming for all. We also represent approximately 500 commercial property owners.

A group of Milwaukee Bucks fans walking across the street.
A little girl wears sunglasses and a bright orange hat on a snowy day.
A woman dances at an outdoor event.
A group of diners eat outside.

Our Mission

We lead and inspire Milwaukee to engage in efforts that build Downtown as the thriving, sustainable, inclusive, innovative, and vibrant heart of the community.

Our Vision

Milwaukee Downtown is an economic catalyst creating opportunities for all. Downtown continues to be a premier destination of choice to live, work, learn, play, and stay. Milwaukee is a renowned world-class city adding value to the state and the Great Lakes region.

Who We Are

We are program managers. Event organizers. Project assessors. Strategic compasses. And above all, passionate advocates for the district we call home.

How You Can Support Us

Whether you live here, work here, or just love to visit, you can support the work we do to keep Downtown Milwaukee a vibrant, opportunity-filled place. Attend our events, invest in our community, partner with us, or simply spread the word. We appreciate your involvement and interest in our downtown community.

Our Plans and Processes

Operating Plan

Turning improvement goals into action is a transparent, multi-step journey. Here’s a look at how the established review and approval process for operating plans works, and who is involved.

Five-Year Strategic Plan

Our top priorities, from beautifying city spaces to supporting economic growth, aim to enhance and elevate the Downtown Milwaukee experience for businesses, residents, and visitors.