BIA- Leaders that are improving your neighbourhood

Mar 2, 2021

William Nixon, Director of Projects,YSEC

If COVID-19 has done one thing, it has reintroduced us to our neighbourhoods and importance of local areas. Avoiding transit, whenever possible, has led to more walks around the side streets that one would normally hurriedly rush by on their daily commute. One leader that is looking to improve your neighbourhood is the Business Improvement Area, known informally as the BIA.

BIA 101

A BIA is a collection of local business people, concerned residents, and interested urban planning students that work together to improve their area to promote economic development. The world’s first BIA was Bloor West Village in Toronto in 1970. BIA’s are funded through a levy from all of the businesses located within the business area boundary and through other public or private streams. They partner with other community groups to hold special events to highlight artists, host cultural celebrations, and hold farmers’ markets. The BIA also oversees the strategic planning of their area such as street scape development or revitalization projects. BIAs aim to provide sustained success of their businesses to improve the community that they call home.

The Value of a BIA

BIAs need the respect that they deserve. BIAs work tirelessly, without enough recognition, to make your neighbourhood stronger economically. Through social media or outreach, they raise awareness around promotions, showcase local restaurants, and connect residents with great local products. Their number one goal is to bring people and economic activity to your local businesses. They create community pride in their neighbourhoods, which helps to build and foster local networks. Emphasizing the support for local talent and products keeps capital within the community rather than being spent at large corporations. Communities that have this connective tissue are more resilient during times of disruption such as COVID-19.

Actions

To learn more about the BIAs around you, follow them on social media or visit their website. Many typically communicate with their communities on a daily basis and provide insights on sales or new projects. Many need volunteers during events or special initiatives such as graffiti removal. If you are in the position to do so, many would accept a donation so they can invest it into one of their local initiatives. Supporting your local BIA is a great way of adding value directly into your community and improving the space around you.