Uniting Downtown. Strengthening Community.
About the Downtown Sarasota Alliance
Founded in 2006 by a dedicated group of downtown residents and business leaders, the DSA was born out of a simple but powerful goal: to transform Sarasota’s downtown into a world-class, visitor-friendly destination while preserving the high quality of life for those who live here.
Over the last two decades, we have grown from a grassroots advocacy group into a vital non-profit pillar that bridges the gap between residents, businesses, and government. Every initiative we take is fueled by our mission to make Sarasota the best city in America to live, work, visit, and play.
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Our Vision
The Downtown Sarasota Alliance (DSA) is the heartbeat of our city’s urban core. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, we serve as the unified voice for the residents, business owners, and visionaries who call downtown home. We believe that a great city doesn’t just happen—it is built through collaboration, advocacy, and a shared passion for our local community.
Bringing the Community Together
What We Do
As a community-funded 501(c)(3), we reinvest our resources directly into the streets and spirits of Sarasota. Our initiatives are designed to beautify our corridors, support our local economy, and create lasting memories.
- Beautifying Our Streets: We manage the Streetlight Banner Program, turning our corridors into a colorful gallery that highlights local events and civic pride.
- Celebrating the Arts: As a “City for the Arts,” we proudly host the Howard Alan Art Festivals, bringing world-class artists and thousands of visitors to Main Street every year.
- A Resource for Discovery: Each year, we produce the official Downtown City Guide, a trusted resource to help over 35,000 residents and visitors navigate our “Mosaic of Districts.”
- Stewards of the Environment: Through our Adoption of Ringling Blvd and regular clean-up efforts, we take hands-on responsibility for keeping our city pristine.
- Building Connections: From our Monthly Networking Events to our annual Back to School Drive, we create spaces where neighbors become friends and businesses become partners.
Support Your Downtown
Because we are a 501(c)(3) non-profit, our impact is made possible by members like you. Whether you are a resident looking to get involved or a business owner looking to grow, your support ensures that Sarasota remains vibrant for generations to come.
FAQ
What is the Downtown Sarasota Alliance?
The Downtown Sarasota Alliance is a community organization dedicated to strengthening and promoting the downtown Sarasota district. We connect businesses, residents, and local leadership to create a vibrant, thriving downtown environment.
40+
Members
18+
Events Hosted
Who can become a member?
Anyone can become a member! Our mission is to provide a place for residents, businesses, and visotors to utilize to find the best that is Downtown Sarasota FL. We offer Corporate Business, Small Business, Non-profit, and Friends of Downtown Membership Levels.
What are the benefits of becoming a member?
All members (Business & Non-Profit) receive these exclusive professional perks:
- Digital Visibility: A full business listing on the DSA website with images and SEO-optimized contact info.
- The City Guide: A Bold Business Listing in our annual Downtown City Guide (35,000+ copies distributed to the SRQ Airport, hotels, and visitor centers).
- Direct Outreach: Event and News can be shared via our Monthly Newsletter Email Blast to our network of residents and businesses to showcase your events or promotions.
- And more.
Marketed by Experts: Benefit from the DSA’s year-round multi-channel marketing of "Downtown Sarasota" to locals and tourists.
How do I join the Alliance?
You can join the Alliance by clicking HERE.
How can I promote my business or event downtown?
Please share your upcoming event and news with our team at DSA@DSASarasota.com
Contact us
Have a question, want to get involved, or interested in membership? We’d love to hear from you.

Address
1330 Main Street, Suite 10 Sarasota, FL 34236


