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Establishing a BIA

The initiative for establishing a BIA program should originate with the local business community. If they decide that the BIA concept is the best vehicle to improve their area, and if they obtain the support of their peers, they can apply to their city or municipal Council to have the area designated as a Business Improvement Area and to add a special levy on all commercial properties within the proposed boundary.

The Business Improvement Association of British Columbia (BIABC) is pleased to provide assistance and guidance to business groups interested in forming a BIA.

BIABC offers outreach services to areas interested in developing a BIA. We strongly recommend obtaining information and advice from BIABC before canvassing local business people or your municipal Council. A common pitfall is insufficient knowledge about the BIA concept to adequately describe it to others.

1. The first step in establishing a BIA is to hold meetings with affected business owners to ascertain whether general support for a BIA is evident. The concept should be explained and the ramifications for the affected businesses discussed.

2. If the idea of a BIA is generally supported, a proposed budget and boundaries should be discussed and support secured from the affected landlords and businesses. It is beneficial to keep municipal council informed of the progress of BIA discussions.

3. When assured of support, BIA organizers should send a letter to City Hall formally requesting BIA designation. This will initiate a formal process for BIA approval and designation (see BIABC's Handbook in the 'resources' section).