Elk Rapids DDA Executive Director John Mach Named Michigan Downtown Association’s 2025 Director of the Year
ELK RAPIDS, MI — The Michigan Downtown Association (MDA) has named John Mach, Executive Director of the Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA), as the 2025 “Director of the Year” for a community with a population under 10,000. The award was presented during the MDA’s Annual Conference held November 6–7 in Rochester, Michigan.
The Director of the Year Award recognizes exceptional leadership, innovation, and collaboration in advancing downtown revitalization and economic development. Mach was honored for his strategic approach to community engagement, marketing, and long-term planning—efforts that have elevated Elk Rapids’ visibility and momentum across the state.
“This award reflects the collective work of the Elk Rapids DDA and our many partners,” said Mach. “Our Board, Village leadership, and business community have all come together to make Elk Rapids stronger, more connected, and more vibrant. My name may be on the plaque, but this recognition belongs to all of us.
” Since joining the DDA as its first full-time Executive Director, Mach has guided key initiatives that have strengthened the community’s identity and economic vitality. Under his leadership, the DDA has:
• Defined DDA goals for Elk Rapids including business development, retention and attraction; preservation and real estate; placemaking and events; people and organizational capabilities; and marketing, branding and communication.
• Implemented a multi-phase Wayfinding Signage Project along with new logos and branding for both the Village and DDA, creating a cohesive and welcoming visual identity.
• Oversaw the Façade Grant Program, supporting property reinvestment and enhancing the visual appeal of the downtown district. $40,000 has been awarded to businesses in 2025.
• Advanced the Discover Elk Rapids digital marketing campaign through a comprehensive, data-driven strategy to attract visitors and support local businesses.
• Positioned Elk Rapids as a Michigan Main Street Engaged Community, the first step toward achieving full Michigan Main Street certification. This designation opens access to resources dedicated to the economic growth and promotion of a downtown district.
• Strengthened collaboration with district businesses and regional partners, including the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance, Antrim County, and the Elk Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, to promote sustainable economic development within the DDA District.
• Developed community education and outreach opportunities for businesses and local leadership to promote collaboration and communication within the DDA district and across the region. The inaugural events were held in 2025 and spring and fall events will continue in 2026.
Barbara Matthews, Chair of the Elk Rapids DDA, praised Mach’s leadership and vision:
“John leads in a way that brings people together and infuses our work with fresh energy to turn ideas into action. His collaborative leadership style, data-driven approach, and steady focus on what’s best for the village have strengthened Elk Rapids’ economic development efforts and helped position our community for long-term success.”
About the Michigan Downtown Association (MDA) Founded in 1980, the Michigan Downtown Association is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening downtowns through education, advocacy, and promotion. The MDA and its members are passionate about fostering the development, redevelopment, and continued vitality of Michigan’s downtowns and communities. For more information about the Elk Rapids DDA and its ongoing projects, visit www.elkrapids.org/downtown-development-authority.
