What is a Business Improvement Area?
A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is an association of commercial property owners and tenants within a defined area that work in partnership with the Town to create thriving, competitive, and safe business areas that attract shoppers, tourists, new businesses and residents.
Working collectively for the good of the local community and businesses, each BIA is governed by a board with the municipality’s support. Funds collected through a special levy are managed by the board to help increase beautification and vibrancy of the area in addition to marketing and special events.
Georgina has three BIAs with locations in Jackson’s Point (est. 1992), Keswick (est. 2014) and Sutton (est. 1995), encompassing more than 150 storefront businesses.
What to expect when you are a BIA business (member)
Business owners (members) can expect regular communication from their BIA board and the Economic Development office that may be of interest to them or impact their business. All members will be invited to the BIA’s annual general meeting, at which time a yearly budget is voted on for approval.
All owners and tenants of a commercially assessed property within a BIA will automatically become BIA members and will be required to contribute to an annual budget to support initiatives within the BIA. Every year, the board holds an Annual General Meeting, open to all members where a budget is presented to the membership to be approved before going to Council.
More information on the operation of a BIA is available in Section 205 of the Municipal Act.
How much do businesses (members) contribute to a BIA levy?
Georgina’s BIA levy is related to the property owner’s commercial property assessment and the proposed budget put together by the BIA board. As of 2024, the annual BIA levy for a property ranges between $200 and $750, depending on the BIA.
Why do business in Georgina?
Georgina is a desirable location to live and invest in, and with Hwy 404, it is only a 30-45 minute drive north of major urban centres. Combined with a lakeside lifestyle, Georgina provides a unique personal and professional balance that’s hard to find so close to Canada’s busiest city. Those interested in starting a business in Georgina can learn more about the Town’s economic indicators and statistics by browsing the data centre.
Five reasons to get involved in your BIA or start a business in a BIA
1. Access to funding opportunities
As part of the Municipal Act, the Town can offer grants and programs to businesses within the designated borders which are intended to improve and revitalize the area. The Town of Georgina offers grants to businesses through the Community Improvement Plan, which includes streams to enhance facade, landscaping and accessibility.
2. Partnerships and networking opportunities
When you are a part of a BIA, you’ll receive communication through the board and the Economic Development office at the Town. This communication may include information about upcoming meetings, opportunities to engage with the Town on municipal project plans, connect with event organizers or take advantage of program opportunities through the YSpace Entrepreneurship Hub, or other partner initiatives. Being geographically situated in close proximity to other brick-and-mortar businesses offers networking and partnership opportunities that more businesses can benefit from.
3. Ability to shape your community
Getting involved on your BIA board means you’ll have increased engagement opportunities to be involved in municipal initiatives that oversee area improvement and beautification projects such as the Town’s Streetscape Program, Patio Program, Waterfront Parks Master Plan, etc. Opportunities may also become available through other levels of government. Overall, a BIA may improve quality of life through physical improvements, the creation of a more vibrant economic environment and an enhanced ambience.
4. Increased marketing opportunities
BIAs have the unique opportunity to promote the area as a shopping and tourist destination through a collective website or other marketing channels. The Town supports the promotion of these areas through campaigns and tourism development. For example, a designated webpage, georgina.ca/downtowns on the Town’s website, which has links to each business.
5. Increased business exposure
The BIA is quite often the central hub for local festivals, celebrations and tourists. Being a part of these areas provides a unique opportunity for increased exposure to residents and visitors and being a part of the board ensures you have a say in the direction and success of your area.
To learn more about Georgina’s BIAs, how to get involved or sit on a board, along with available storefront locations and market opportunities, contact Georgina’s Economic Development and Tourism office at ed@georgina.ca.