Hillsboro Downtown Partnership: Creating a Clean, Connected, Thriving Downtown

Downtown Hillsboro is a welcoming place for businesses, residents, and visitors thanks in part to the work of the Hillsboro Downtown Partnership (HDP).

The organization works closely with the City of Hillsboro, nonprofits, businesses, and volunteers to keep streets clean, support business retention and growth, and promote events and activities.

"The Hillsboro Downtown Partnership's behind-the-scenes work is an invaluable asset to the Downtown community and local businesses," said Maxine Braune-Williams, owner of DAnu wines. "From removing graffiti and providing ongoing trash cleanup to facilitating meetings where business owners can connect and stay informed about what's happening in Downtown and with one another, the Partnership plays a vital role in keeping our downtown clean, connected, and thriving."

Enhancing Downtown Spaces

Beautification is a core part of HDP's services. HDP staff regularly remove litter and graffiti, and monthly volunteer Tidy Up events bring together corporate teams, students, and neighborhoods to care for public spaces.

2025 HDP Beautification Statistics:

• Staff Hours: 2,430

• Volunteer Hours: 1,741

• Total Volunteers: 429

• Volunteer Events: 31

• Trash Collected: 71⁺ Tons

• Grocery Carts Collected: 142

• Graffiti Removed: 762 incidents

• Cigarette Butts Picked Up: 165 pounds

Business Advocacy & Connection

Supporting local businesses is essential to a thriving downtown. HDP connects business owners with technical assistance, marketing resources, network opportunities, and support.

HDP recently expanded outreach in the neighborhoods of Avenida Diez and M&M Marketplace. Through events such as Loteria Night, free Halloween Costume Closet, and Ladies' Night, HDP has built stronger relationships with the Spanish-speaking business community.

Additionally, HDP hosts monthly business forums for business owners to collaborate, share ideas, and discuss promotions, events, and issues affecting downtown.

"The Partnership's role in connecting downtown merchants and facilitating ongoing collaboration is critically important," said Kathie Nelson, Co-owner, Résolu Cellars. "As a business owner, participation in Partnership meetings provides regular opportunities to engage with other merchants in open discussion about current priorities and challenges. That consistent engagement is helping translate long-standing ideas into action, strengthening communication and building meaningful momentum toward a more connected and vibrant downtown."

Events & Marketing

Community events, business promotion, and marketing play an important role in strengthening Downtown Hillsboro. HDP leads the annual Hillsboro Holly Days Celebration and supports markets and other special promotions that encourage people to explore local shops, restaurants, and attractions. Other community events are promoted through HDP's website, email newsletters, and social media.

HDP's digital gift card program encourages residents and visitors to shop locally. Gift card can be used at more than 30 participating businesses Downtown. Every purchase directly supports local businesses and helps strengthen the Downtown economy.

In addition, the Downtown HIVE serves as a visitor information center, providing maps, event details, and personalized recommendations.

A Lasting Impact

HDP continues to advocate for and promote Downtown Hillsboro as a destination for friends, families, and neighbors.

Read Hillsboro Downtown Partnership's 25/26 Annual Report.