Mayor Jim Watson declares today BIA day in support of local Ottawa businesses

Byward-shops

The City of Ottawa applauds the city’s local business communities as Mayor Jim Watson today proclaimed November 12 Business Improvement Area (BIA) Day in Ottawa. This day acknowledges the incredible work that these associations do to support Ottawa’s small businesses.

During these challenging times of COVID-19, it is more important than ever to recognize the contributions of local BIAs provide to Ottawa’s economy and to our community.

“Ottawa’s BIAs are a significant voice for our small businesses, which are the backbone of our economy,” said Mayor Jim Watson. “I encourage all Ottawa residents to support Main Street businesses and our small business community, especially during these difficult times,” added Mayor Watson.

What is a BIA?

A BIA is an association of commercial property owners and tenants who work with the City to create thriving, competitive and safe areas that attract shoppers, diners, visitors and new businesses. The Ottawa Coalition of Business Improvement Areas (link is external) (OCOBIA) and the 19 BIAs in Ottawa collectively represent more than 6,400 businesses who employ 120,000 people.

Ottawa extensive coalition of 19 BIAs are: Bank Street, Barrhaven, Bells Corners, Byward Market, Carp Road Corridor, Carp Village, Downtown Rideau, Glebe, Heart of Orleans, Kanata Centre, Kanata North, Manotick, Preston Street, Quartier Vanier, Somerset STreet Chinatown, Somerset Village, Sparks Street, Wellington West, and Westboro Village.

Ottawa’s BIAs provide valuable programs and services to support the growth of the city’s business community. In 2019, BIA members contributed approximately $7.3 million within their respective districts towards beautification, promotion, cleanliness and safety, in order to improve the visitor and resident experience and enhance business growth.

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