Key Functions of a BIA

The Impact of BIAs on Local Businesses

A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is a collective organization that undertakes various initiatives to enhance and support the commercial district it represents. Activities vary depending on the specific needs of each community but generally fall into four key categories: Beautification, Marketing, Economic Development, and Membership Support.

1. Beautification

BIAs play a significant role in improving the physical environment of their districts. The New Brunswick Main Street Program, initiated in 1983, helped BIAs create five-year improvement plans and provided funding for projects such as:

• Sidewalk and curb enhancements: Beautification and reconstruction.

• Pedestrian-friendly amenities: Signage, landscaping, and walkways.

• Public spaces: Development of small municipal parks.

• Parking solutions: Creation of surface or ground-level parking lots.

Over time, BIAs have leveraged additional programs like the Urban Core Agreement, the Community Improvement Program, and the Environmental Trust Fund to maintain and expand these initiatives.

2. Marketing and Promotion

Marketing efforts are key to attracting visitors and driving business growth. BIAs employ a variety of strategies, including:

• Media advertising and billboards.

• Special events that draw foot traffic to the area.

• Seasonal sales and prize-winning contests.

These initiatives are typically funded by the BIA membership and tailored to the unique characteristics of the district.

3. Economic Development

Many BIAs have expanded their role to actively foster economic growth within their boundaries. This includes:

• Encouraging new developments: Partnering with municipalities to create a business-friendly climate.

• Collaborating on municipal policies: Ensuring by-laws and policies support new commercial development.

• Land redevelopment: Assembling underutilized spaces for business use or additional parking.

• Business recruitment: Developing and executing marketing strategies to attract new businesses.

Regular collaboration between BIAs and municipal staff helps ensure shared goals and coordinated efforts. The BIA Act requires at least one municipal council member to sit on the BIA Board of Directors, fostering a direct link between the two.

4. Membership Support

The BIA model is built on the concept of self-help—local businesses work together to improve their community. BIAs support their members by:

• Encouraging property improvements.

• Offering guidance on best practices for business operations and merchandising.

This collective effort often attracts additional support from municipalities and higher levels of government, creating a ripple effect of revitalization and growth.