About Us

The District is comprised of two independent organizations, the Columbia Special Business District and the Central Columbia Association.

The Columbia Special Business District is dedicated to beautification, business recruitment, economic development, historic preservation and other issues. The Central Columbia Association, its sister organization, is a voluntary merchants' association dedicated to promoting shopping, dining and entertainment in The District. These organizations work together--with the help of business and property owners--to increase the attractiveness and the vitality of Columbia's central city.

The goals of the SBD are to:

  1. Protect and strengthen the business, cultural and entertainment environments in The District.
  2. Provide services to those who shop, play and work in The District.
  3. Serve as the voice of businesses and property owners in The District with local and state entities.
  4. Support and coordinate long-term planning for The District.

If you'd like to know if your property or business is included within the Special Business District bondaries, check the SBD map or contact our office at info@discoverthedistrict.com

Members of CCA receive numerous benefits including:

  1. A personalized page on our website.
  2. Participation in The District Gift Certificate Program.
  3. Bi-monthly e-mail updates.
  4. Quarterly newsletters.
  5. The opportunity to participate in lower-cost, co-op advertising.
  6. The chance to play an active role in CCA committees and help make key decisions.
  7. The right to vote for CCA board members.

If you are interested in becoming a CCA member, please call us at 442-6816.

SBD Member Survey. Take this quick survey and you could win a $100 District shopping spree!
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SBD Restructuring. Learn more about the process.
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Annual Report now available. Download your copy now.
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Parking Garage Proposals. Planned for Walnut Street.
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SBD Funding. An overview of our revenue sources.
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SBD Update. Read the latest member news.
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What's a CID? Community Improvement Districts and other development incentives.
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Whose Job Is It? Check out our quick maintenance guide and report problems online.
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Graffiti Problems? Read our Crime Prevention Guide for tips on what to do.
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5900 Parking Spaces!
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Free WiFi hotspots!
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Member newsletter. Join our mailing list.
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New Wayfinding Signage. Installation completed!
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Real change, not spare change. Work towards real social change at www.changeforcolumbia.com.
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