Riverfront Downtown Elk River Business Association
Building a Stronger Downtown Elk River.
Since 1982, we’ve brought businesses together to strengthen downtown Elk River and make it a place people love to visit and gather.
About DERBA
Connecting local businesses to build a vibrant, welcoming Downtown Elk River.
The Riverfront Downtown Elk River Business Association (DERBA) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening and promoting Downtown Elk River as a vibrant destination for business, events, and community life. Established in 1982, DERBA connects local businesses, community partners, and the City of Elk River to support economic growth, collaborative marketing, and strategic municipal improvements. Through coordinated branding, events, and downtown beautification efforts, the association helps elevate Elk River’s image while driving foot traffic and visibility for local businesses. DERBA members play a key role in shaping commerce, enhancing the riverfront downtown experience, and creating year-round events that make Downtown Elk River a welcoming place to shop, dine, gather, and do business.
Meet Our Board
DERBA is led by a four-member, all-volunteer, board of directors.
Deana McLean | Chair
Owner, Salon On Main & Boutique
Allison McDowell | Co-Chair
Owner, Allison’s Addicts Boutique
Melanie Clemons | Secretary
Marketing & Business Development Manager, Kiser Construction
Amy O’Konek | Treasurer
Community Engagement Specialist, The Bank of Elk River
Attend Our Events
Have you ever strolled through Downtown Elk River during Halloween or the holidays and admired the festive decorations? That’s DERBA at work.
Become a Member
Membership Benefits Include:
Strategic collaborative marketing with fellow local small businesses to expand reach and impact.
Enhanced brand visibility through special event print and digital publications, online advertising, and featured placement on DERBA event and member webpages.
Improved search engine visibility through shared links and coordinated online promotion.
Direct partnerships and collaboration with the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce, the City of Elk River, Sherburne County, and fellow member businesses.
A voice in shaping downtown commerce and events, helping guide decisions that impact the greater Elk River community.
Annual Membership Fee is $155
Monthly Member Meetings are optional to attend but highly encouraged and take place the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 9 AM at The Bank of Elk River, 630 Main Street.
Attend as a Guest if you are considering joining DERBA but would like to attend a meeting first, RSVP as a guest.
Have a question or comment about DERBA?
Use the button below to send us a message and one of our board members will get back to you as quickly as possible.
