The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore approached Collins + Co. in Fall 2021 to amplify the good work they do behind the scenes, day in and day out, for the Central Business District (CBD), which drives the city’s economic engine. With a roster of existing, established neighborhood events and economic-development-rooted programming, as the chosen agency of the organization we were challenged to raise awareness and drive genuine interest in the work of this quasi-non-profit and development institution.
Following the nationwide civil unrest of 2020, Collins + Co. was intentional about spotlighting the community-centered work that the partnership facilitates in this majority-Black city. We also prioritized newly announced CEO Shelonda Stoke’s mission of “total city connectivity.”
Downtown Partnership of Baltimore
Utilizing an always-on media relations approach, C + Co. began pounding the pavement with DPOB messaging—uncovering untold stories, highlighting for-good programming and businesses in the downtown corridor, and illuminating champions of diversity who call the CBD home.
We dug into the ‘why’ behind each arm of the organization, ensuring that each touchpoint with media laddered up to the greater mission and ethos of the organization and its leader.
strategy
Public relations, crisis communications, thought leadership
WORK
Spotlight existing events happening in the CBD, and drive awareness and attendance using media placements earned through strong, regional media relationships. Amplify the voice and mission of the CEO of DPOB to establish a sense of community and belonging; invite other businesses to get on board with the revitalization of Downtown Baltimore. Shift the narrative of DPOB from a business organization to a neighborhood organization – inviting all to join the partnership and add vibrancy to Downtown Baltimore.
C+Co. earned over 330 positive media placements for The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore – transforming the public perception of the quasi-non-profit organization. The Co. garnered 99 placements on holiday programming in 2021 alone, including securing national photographers to attend and document the monument lighting, a first-ever feat. This accomplishment was noted as the most media coverage the organization has had in over a decade.