Downtown Kingston BIA
(Business Improvement Area),
is one of the oldest BIA’s in Ontario, established in 1973.

Click on the video to learn more about Business Improvement Areas.

What is a BIA?

A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is a designated district within a city or town where businesses and commercial properties come together to foster growth and enhance the community. The primary goal of a BIA is to create a more vibrant, welcoming environment for both residents and visitors. This collaborative effort between business owners, property owners, and local government serves to improve the area's visual appeal, support existing businesses, and attract new ones.

Through various initiatives like beautification projects, promotional events, and other improvements, BIAs contribute to the overall economic vitality of the neighborhood. By working together, local businesses can create a thriving and inviting atmosphere that encourages economic growth and strengthens community connections.

Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) are mainly funded by a BIA levy. Businesses and property owners within the BIA pay an additional tax or fee, which goes directly towards funding BIA projects and initiatives.

FAQs

  • The local municipality often provide funding or in-kind support for BIA activities, recognizing the important role they play in enhancing the community and driving economic growth.

    BIAs may secure additional funding through grants and sponsorships from regional, provincial, or federal government agencies, as well as private foundations and corporate partners.

    These diverse funding sources enable BIAs to undertake various projects and initiatives aimed at improving the local business environment and contributing to the overall vitality of the area.

  • Membership in a Business Improvement Area (BIA) is typically tied to a business's physical location within the designated BIA boundaries. If a business is located within the defined area, they are automatically included as a member of the BIA and are subject to the BIA levy or special assessment.

  • Operators of businesses:

    All businesses in the area, whether retail, professional, dining, entertainment, or finance, may benefit from the improved local atmosphere and ambience that a successful BIA helps to create. Improvements and activities may keep more local customers and attract more visitors. Members may benefit from cost savings as a result of better integration of capital funding and promotional activities.

    Property owners:

    BIA-initiated improvements and activities may help to create and sustain a more vibrant economic environment within an area, which may lead to increased demand for retail and office space, a decrease in commercial vacancy rates, and an increase in property values.

    Neighbouring Communities:

    A BIA can improve the quality of life in surrounding neighbourhoods by making physical improvements as well as providing a better atmosphere, more options for local shopping and professional services, job opportunities, cleanup and safety programmes, and community gatherings.

    The greater community:

    Fostering local economic development and revitalization in a community can provide new impetus for tourism and investment in the larger community. Increased business activity can benefit both the municipal and sales tax bases, as well as public services that benefit everyone. Fostering community engagement has the potential to strengthen and expand community interest, spirit, pride, and networks far beyond the boundaries of a BIA.