Support Tools for BIAs
Practical Tools for the Work You Do Every Day
Running a BIA is a balancing act. Engaging businesses, working with municipalities, proving value, managing projects, and keeping downtowns vibrant—it’s a lot. Every BIA faces different challenges, but most don’t have access to structured support when they need it.
Through All Things BIA, I offer a range of practical tools designed to help BIAs strengthen their operations, develop leadership, and bring new ideas to life. Whether you need a fresh strategic plan, help hiring the right staff, or marketing and activation ideas, these resources are built for BIAs by someone who has done the job.
BIA Consulting:
Strategy Development, Toolkits & Action Plans
Many BIAs struggle with similar challenges—member engagement, governance issues, scattered operating hours, event fatigue, or proving value. I work with BIAs to develop clear, realistic strategies that help them move forward with confidence. I really want to help BIA Executive Directors navigate their jobs, know there is help out there, and make them not feel so isolated in their daily work.
Strategic & Action Planning – Tailored guidance that considers your BIA’s structure, funding, and long-term goals.
Governance Support – Helping Boards and staff work better together by clarifying roles, responsibilities, and expectations.
Downtown Vitality & Engagement – Looking at ways to make main streets feel more inviting, vibrant, and community-driven.
A BIA works best when it has a clear direction, a strong team, and a plan that makes sense for its community.
Hiring & Training Support:
Finding the Right Leadership for Your BIA
Hiring the right staff is one of the most important decisions a BIA Board will make—but many don’t know where to start. With years of experience hiring and training BIA staff, I help Boards through the entire process, making sure they find the right fit.
Job Descriptions & Recruitment – Crafting clear job descriptions and handling the early interview rounds.
Executive Director Training – Supporting new hires as they navigate their role, build relationships with the Board, and develop their own leadership style.
Ongoing Support – New EDs often have questions months into the job. I provide a flexible structure where they can check in and get guidance as needed.
Many BIAs don’t have formal onboarding for their staff. I work one-on-one to help new hires gain confidence, understand the BIA model, and avoid the common pitfalls of the role.
Marketing & Activation Ideas:
Budget-Friendly, High-Impact Strategies
Marketing and community engagement look different for every BIA. Some need help with business retention, others want to activate underused spaces, and many are looking for small but impactful ways to make their downtown feel more inviting.
Tactical Urbanism & Placemaking – Exploring creative ways to bring life to public spaces through small interventions.
Business & Community Engagement – Helping BIAs create stronger relationships with their members through meaningful interactions.
Marketing & Events – Finding cost-effective, ongoing strategies beyond large-scale events to keep people engaged year-round.
I work with BIAs to explore what makes sense for their district, budget, and community.
Speaking Engagements:
Conferences, AGMs & BIA Leadership Events
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to speak at OBIAA Conferences, BIA Annual General Meetings, and Creative Hub events, sharing insights from my experience working with BIAs of all sizes.
Some of the topics I cover include:
BIA Governance & Leadership – Helping Boards and staff work together more effectively.
BIA Revitalization & Strategy – Practical ways to strengthen and grow a business district.
Building Strong Municipal Partnerships – How BIAs can collaborate with their municipality to achieve better outcomes.
Whether it’s a conference, workshop, or Board training session, I tailor my approach to the audience and their specific needs.
Ongoing Support:
When You Need It
BIAs are constantly evolving, and sometimes the biggest value comes from having someone to check in with along the way. I stay in touch with the BIAs I work with—sharing insights, checking in, and offering guidance when needed.
If your BIA is looking for support, strategy, or fresh ideas, I’d be happy to chat about what might be helpful.