For more than 20 years, the Downtown Denver Leadership Program has developed emerging leaders who are passionate about shaping our center city.
By becoming a member of the Downtown Denver Partnership, you invest in our mission and play an active role in shaping the future of our center city. There are multiple ways members can get involved, from participating on our advisory committees and task forces to building relationships within the Denver business community and accessing our resources and signature programs.
Our Members
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Guide strategic city planning and promote economic prosperity alongside fellow leaders
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Weigh in on key issues and have a say in how the city’s future is shaped for years to come
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Connect to the right stakeholders at the right times to influence impactful decisions
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Access an unparalleled network of key industry decision-makers and influencers
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Promote company city building initiatives through discussion and cross-collaboration
Running annually from February through October, DDLP selects 60 participants from across sectors to engage in expert-led workshops, hands-on civic projects, and peer learning. Participants build relationships, strengthen their leadership skills, and dive into real issues facing urban environments.
They leave empowered to advocate for Downtown’s future and take on a stronger civic voice—both in their organizations and the broader community.
Applications for the 2026 cohort are now open. Apply by Wednesday, January 7.
2026 Program: Building for Belonging
Every year, the Downtown Denver Leadership Program collaborates to unravel the complexities of city-building by undertaking a project that is relevant to the work of the Downtown Denver Partnership.
Our 2026 class project will explore a vital question that affects us all: How do we create a Downtown Denver where everyone feels they belong?
Belonging is the foundation for thriving communities. When people feel connected to the places they inhabit, research shows they experience better health, stronger workplace satisfaction, greater trust in their neighbors and local institutions, and a deeper appreciation for diversity. Yet today, according to the 2024 Colorado Belonging Barometer Report, just over half of Coloradans report feeling a true sense of belonging in their communities. At the Downtown Denver Partnership, we recognize that addressing this gap is essential to building an economically competitive, resilient downtown that serves us all.
Through collaborative sessions with community leaders and hands-on project development, participants in the 2026 Leadership Program will examine the barriers and opportunities that shape how people experience our city center. Working in small groups, you'll design and implement tangible projects aligned with the 2024 Downtown Area Plan that create visible change in how people connect with Downtown Denver. These aren't theoretical exercises, they are real initiatives with lasting impact where the goal is that all feel represented, inspired, and welcomed.
This program is more than professional development; it’s an opportunity to practice leadership that matters, build relationships across sectors that will extend throughout your career, and contribute directly to shaping the next decade of our city's evolution. Whether you're brand new to urban planning or deeply experienced in city-building work, if you're passionate about downtown's future and ready to contribute your unique perspective, we urge you to join the effort and apply to our 2026 program. Learn more about opportunities and program curriculum by accessing our 2026 Program Overview.
Thank You to Our 2025 Program Sponsors
By becoming a member of the Downtown Denver Partnership, you invest in our mission and play an active role in shaping the future of our center city. There are multiple ways members can get involved, from participating on our advisory committees and task forces to building relationships within the Denver business community and accessing our resources and signature programs.
Our Members
-
Guide strategic city planning and promote economic prosperity alongside fellow leaders
-
Weigh in on key issues and have a say in how the city’s future is shaped for years to come
-
Connect to the right stakeholders at the right times to influence impactful decisions
-
Access an unparalleled network of key industry decision-makers and influencers
-
Promote company city building initiatives through discussion and cross-collaboration
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To learn more about the program, download the 2025 Program Packet
The 2025 DDLP Program kicked off on February 25, 2025. Follow us on LinkedIn for program updates.