40 Years of Business Improvement Areas | City of Calgary BIA Week 2024

Celebrate 40 Years of Business Improvement Areas in Calgary

This year marks a significant milestone for Calgary’s business community: 40 years of Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), formerly known as Business Revitalization Zones. For four decades, BIAs have been a cornerstone in the support of local businesses, public spaces, and vibrant neighborhoods across the city.

A Look Back: The Beginning of BIAs in Calgary

In 1984, the 17 Avenue (Happy 40th Birthday to us!) and Marda Loop BIAs were the first to be established in Calgary. Fast forward to today, and there are now 15 BIAs across the city, representing over 6,400 businesses. These BIAs have played a crucial role in shaping some of Calgary’s most cherished and lively communities.

Hear from a business that has been in the 17th Ave BIA since the beginning:

“The 17 Avenue BIA has been essential in the area’s development,” says Stebbe. “Businesses owners by themselves can find it hard to have their voices heard, but if there’s a collective of businesses negotiating and advocating with The City of Calgary for the betterment of the whole area, together we have a really strong voice.”

Read the full article here.

Click here: From its modest beginnings to the dynamic corridor that now defines our city, take a trip to the past and see what 17th Ave SW looked like.

The Impact of BIAs

BIAs contribute to Calgary’s economic and social fabric by organizing events, promoting local businesses, and enhancing public spaces. Their work includes:

• Placemaking and Public Space Improvements: BIAs beautify and maintain public areas with features like street banners, planters, bike racks, seating, and seasonal decorations.
• Activations and Events: Hosting local promotions and events to draw Calgarians to neighborhood businesses.
• Advocacy: Supporting the needs of business members through advocacy and initiatives that drive local economic development.

Learn more about BIAs and their lasting impact at Calgary.ca/BIA.

Supporting Local: Why It Matters

Supporting local businesses strengthens Calgary’s economic resilience and fosters a strong sense of community. You can support local in various ways:

• Shop in-person or online at local stores.
• Leave positive reviews.
• Follow businesses on social media and subscribe to their newsletters.
• Share your favorite local businesses with friends and family.

By supporting local, you’re not just buying products—you’re helping to sustain livelihoods and enrich Calgary’s neighborhoods.

Explore more about how BIAs work and their purpose at Calgary.ca/BIA. Let’s celebrate 40 years of BIAs and continue to support the heart of our city!

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Stalk the latest and greatest on 17th Ave:

Instagram: @17thavesw

Facebook: @17thavesw

Website: 17thave.ca

The 17th Avenue Business Improvement Area (BIA) is committed to preserving the diverse and energetic character of the area’s business community. We advocate for public safety, revitalize public spaces, implement placemaking initiatives and collaborate with City of Calgary departments to enhance economic well-being and attract new businesses, fostering a thriving and inclusive environment for all.

Our borders are from 16th Street to 2nd Street SW along 17th Ave SW and several blocks of 14th (up to 12 Ave SW), 8th Street SW (up to 14th Ave SW) and 11th Street (up to 14th Ave SW).