Downtown Kitchener Business Improvement Area (BIA)
The Downtown Kitchener Business Improvement Area (BIA) is a non-profit organization that was initiated by small businesses in Downtown Kitchener and approved by the City of Kitchener in 1977. We are funded by a commercial taxation assessment levy paid by owners within a specified boundary.
Our elected Board of Directors govern the organization to ensure that our resources, guided by our strategic priorities, are reaching their highest return for the membership. Through our passionate team, we provide many services to the downtown area, including streetscape beautification, marketing, as well as festival and event support that drive foot traffic. We work with strategic partners, including the City of Kitchener to maximize efforts for the Downtown.
Strategic Priorities:
Activate
- Promote authentic experiences.
- Support a vibrant arts and culture scene.
- Amplify the use of live entertainment.
- Encourage experiences in unique spaces.
Enhance/Beautify
- Engage in programs to make Downtown attractive for visitors, employees, and residents.
- Work with partners where possible, including municipal and regional governments, for the best return on investment in beautification efforts.
Connect
- Act as the catalyst connecting people to the downtown district.
- Focus on making new connections between residents, businesses, and community events.
Own It Magazine
Own It is a creative journal that tells the stories of Downtown Kitchener's change makers who are redefining DTK through their passion and innovation.
Since 2013, Own It has connected people and the downtown community by sharing stories that are authentic. Just as our new Light Rail Transit connects people to experience food, festivals, working and living, our intention is that Own It will ignite a new connection for you to the heart of your city.
See how DTK has evolved over the years through the carefully captured stories of Own It.
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