ABOUT TILBURY BIA

To create and enhance a vibrant and attractive downtown core with business owners actively involved in promoting cultural, commercial, and recreational activities that appeal to all ages.

The BIA is the voice of its central business community. They are committed to improving and promoting the Area through investment and advocacy to maintain the Municipality’s position as a premier shopping, business, and entertainment destination.

The Tilbury BIA or Business Improvement Association is a committee of council established by the municipality that allows local people and commercial property owners and tenants to join together and, with municipal support, to organize, finance and carry out physical improvements and promote economic development in their district. The Tilbury BIA focuses on streetscaping, professional development, marketing and promotion, and events that attract businesses and improve the lifestyle of local residents. The Tilbury BIA is governed under the specific business improvement area provisions in the Municipal Act 2001. Its funding comes from a municipal levy recommended by the local BIA and approved by council.

Tilbury’s BIA board of management consists of up to 10 directors. It is unique in that, originally set up by the former Tilbury council; its BIA area was further expanded through a change in bi-laws in 1986 to include all businesses in Tilbury. All property owners and those tenants who contribute to local municipal taxes are considered members of the BIA. Excluded are institutions. Tilbury’s BIA also makes allowances for inclusion of such organizations, service clubs and businesses outside of the Tilbury area itself by providing associate memberships.

People also refer to the geographic area designated by the municipality as the BIA area as the BIA or Business Improvement Area.

The Tilbury BIA enjoys a very close relationship with the local Tilbury & District Chamber of Commerce. The two are represented by many of the same members and meet jointly. Currently they meet at 7:30 a.m. on the third Friday of the month.

Those interested in joining our BIA or becoming a member of the board of directors should contact Natalie Whittal, Executive Director and Event Coordinator 519 682 3040.