Oshawa Downtown BIA is offering associate memberships to firms located outside the downtown core, according to a BIA media release.
Under the relaxation, BIA has accepted two new associate members: All or Nothing Brewhouse and Distillery and Oshawa Art Association.
“We had started our business in Oshawa just under 6 years ago…After we found what we consider our permanent forever home which happens to be on a main road that takes visitors up to Downtown Oshawa we knew our building and business would be one of the first things visitors see as they enter Downtown Oshawa and we wanted to ensure we were aligned with the programs and messaging the Downtown Oshawa BIA stands for. We hope we can provide value to this thriving community of business owners and do our part in revitalizing Oshawa,” said Eric Dornan, Owner of All-or-Nothing Brewery.
“The Oshawa Art Association has been active for over 50 years and has over 200 members. We believe becoming an Associate Member of the BIA will allow us to reach more potential members as well as assist us in sharing local art with our community,” said Karen Coyle, Special Events Director, Oshawa Art Association.
A BIA allows local business people and property owners to join together and with the support of the municipality, to organize, finance and carry out physical improvement and promote economic development in their district. There are many things the Oshawa Downtown BIA does to help businesses in the area – whether it’s hosting events to bring the community together downtown or promoting businesses on the BIA social media pages and monthly newsletters.
The associate membership costs $300 per year.
Some of the services include:
• Listing on our websites Downtown Oshawa BIA Business Directory
• E-Newsletters, communications of up-to-date information and opportunities
• Participation in events where appropriate
• Participation in promotions & advertising exclusive to BIA members
• Participation on Committees where possible
• Input into events, advocacy, promotions and advertising
• Other issues relating to the economic development of our business community (such as Strategic Planning, parking etc.)
This membership does not include voting rights or participation in beautification/maintenance programs. To avoid duplication of businesses, associate members will be chosen based on how they differ from existing downtown businesses.
Customization of membership is also available.
“We’re excited about the new opportunity for Downtown Oshawa to include a range of businesses that we may not have in our catchment. We’re thrilled to have All or Nothing Brewhouse and Oshawa Art Association a part of our membership,” said Amanda MacDonald, Executive Director.