A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is an association of property owners and tenants of commercial and industrial zoned properties within a defined area, under the governance of a board of management, that carry out improvements and promote economic development within their boundary. 

BIAs support businesses in their area with: 

  • Beautification - Seasonal planters, banners or signage
  • Marketing and promotion – They promote both events that they will be hosting as well as those by their business members
  • Special events – Holiday events, walking tours, hosting events in conjunction with other larger businesses or the city.
  • Advocacy for the members of the BIA and helps them have a stronger voice to the city on issues or at committee meetings
  • Business recruitment

BIAs receive funding for activities and programs from businesses within their approved boundary. All businesses are enrolled as BIA members and are subject to an additional levy on top of their commercial or industrial property taxes.