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State of Downtown

State of Downtown Tempe 

The State of Downtown Tempe is an annual event that brings together community leaders, local partners, business owners, and stakeholders to reflect on the district’s progress and look ahead at what’s next.

Each year, attendees get a behind-the-scenes look at the work being done to support a thriving downtown, along with engaging moments that highlight the people and stories behind it all. The evening includes food, drinks, networking, and the presentation of the Downtown Tempe Impact Awards, which recognize people and projects making a meaningful difference in the district.

See you in 2026!


2025 Impact Awards Categories & Winners

Business Community Impact:  improving the quality and viability of the Downtown Tempe Business Community.  Examples include a business that offers something new or a historic business that has been steadily adding vibrancy to the district.  

2025 Recipient 

The Plant Mill

Cultural Impact:  improving the image, vibe, and cultural vitality of Downtown Tempe.  Examples include cultural venues, performances, street activations, or events demonstrating new and unique programming.

2025 Recipient 

City of Tempe Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Economic Impact:  increasing Downtown Tempe's economic vitality.  Examples include a unique development, residential growth, companies that are increasing the number of jobs available, or events that draw people and bring an economic boom to the area.  

2025 Recipient 

U.S. Post Office - Mill Avenue

Environmental Impact: exemplifying environmentally sustainable practices in Downtown Tempe.  Examples include a transit project, improved resource utilization, or a development exceeding green standards.  

2025 Recipient 

Tempe Streetcar

Social Impact: making outstanding contributions to humanitarian causes in Downtown Tempe.  Examples include individuals who volunteer their time, companies that encourage philanthropic acts, or social service agencies that are leading the way in positive social change.  

2025 Recipient 

Tempe Bicycle Action Group

Iconic Businesses:  helping to shape the sense of place over an extended time.  These are businesses that have become institutions, have weathered the test of time, contribute to the economic vitality, add distinction to the business community, and have enhanced the culture of Downtown Tempe.  

2025 Recipient 

Lotions & Potions

Signature Event:  events that brand Tempe as a vibrant dynamic place and showcase downtown building new customers.  Events should bring an impactful cultural element to our Downtown and/or have a large economic impact on the district.  

2025 Recipient 

Four Peaks Sister Cities Oktoberfest

Lifetime Achievement Awards:  Game changer events, projects or people that made downtown what it is over an extended period of time.  

2025 Recipient 

Robin Arredondo-Savage

Volunteer of the Year: Recognizes outstanding event/program volunteers whose dedicated service to a program or event has made a significant difference in the downtown community. 

2025 Recipient 

Greg & Michele Spear

Check out all previous award winners HERE.
 

Thank you to our 2025 Sponsors

EVENT SPONSORS

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