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Fostering an economically vibrant downtown.

Read our 2023–2024 Annual Report!

About Us

Downtown SLO serves San Luis Obispo as the voice for downtown business. Established as a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, our mission is to foster an economically vibrant downtown. Our organization is made up of the fee-paying businesses within the predefined Business Improvement Area, voluntary members, and our civic collaborators, including nonprofit organizations, residents, and visitors to our downtown. We have a robust partnership with the City of San Luis Obispo. We advocate on behalf of our membership as well as participate in City processes to ensure our downtown is positioned as vital to our city, county, and regional economy and identity.

Our Values

  • We help people and business grow and thrive
  • We foster a feeling of belonging
  • We create community
  • We like to bring people together
  • We celebrate diversity
  • We practice optimism
  • We are resilient
  • We actively promote a walkable, bike-able, accessible community
  • We cultivate sustainability
  • We value the outdoors and respect our natural environment
  • We believe that a thriving economy depends on authentic connection

Events

From the famous Thursday Night Farmers’ Market to the Annual Holiday Parade to Concerts in the Plaza, we’re always preparing for the next big event in downtown SLO! For a list of current programs and upcoming events, click here.

Friends of Downtown SLO

Launched in 2018, Friends of Downtown SLO is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that focuses on clean and safe efforts, including the Ambassador program, beautification and public art, urban forest protection, and homeless outreach. Your charitable donation is tax-deductible through the Friends of Downtown SLO.

Clean and Safe Program

Our Downtown Ambassadors work on the sidewalks to make sure our downtown community is safe, clean, and welcoming for residents and visitors.

Employment

View open positions with us here.