Bethesda Urban Partnership Inc

Bethesda Urban Partnership Inc. (BUP) is a non-profit organization based in Bethesda, Maryland. Founded in 1994 by Montgomery County, BUP has grown to employ 35 individuals across various departments, including marketing, maintenance, administration, and transportation management. BUP's primary mission is to promote and support the vibrant downtown Bethesda area. They achieve this through a multifaceted approach, encompassing marketing initiatives, event programming, and operational management. BUP's marketing team organizes community festivals, arts events, and campaigns to highlight the diverse offerings of downtown Bethesda, which include restaurants, retailers, entertainment venues, and cultural attractions. Beyond marketing, BUP manages several key initiatives, including Bethesda Transportation Solutions (BTS), the Bethesda Arts & Entertainment District, and the Bethesda Circulator. These services contribute to the functionality and vibrancy of the downtown area. BUP's 11-member Board of Directors, comprised of residents, businesses, and developers, oversees the organization. Funding for BUP's operations primarily comes from Bethesda Parking Lot District fees and commercial Urban District property taxes, supplemented by partnerships with private sponsors for events like Taste of Bethesda, the Bethesda Fine Arts Festival, and Imagination Bethesda.