About

About us

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.

Mission Statement

To make Downtown Kitchener a destination where people connect with each other, businesses, and culture.

Vision Statement

The Downtown Kitchener BIA is driven to activate, beautify, and connect a thriving community that fosters innovation, inclusivity, and vibrancy.

Strategic Priorities

Activate

Promote authentic experiences.
Support a vibrant arts and culture scene.
Amplify the use of live entertainment.
Encourage experiences in unique spaces.

Beautify & Enhance

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.

What is a BIA?

What is a BIA? A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is a “made-in- Ontario” innovation that allows local business people and commercial property owners and tenants to join together and, with the support of the municipality, to organize, finance, and carry out physical improvements and promote economic development in their district. Traditionally, a BIA is a body established by a municipality using the specific business improvement area provisions in the Municipal Act, 2001. It is governed by a board of management.

Contact us

We'd be happy to chat about the Downtown Action Plan, moving your business here, upcoming events, services the Business Improvement Area offers, or anything else downtown related!

Linda Jutzi, Executive Director

519-744-4921 x.5
[email protected]

DTK BIA Boundary Map

"I love being part of a renaissance. There’s so much energy around the architecture and the artists and the community and the new businesses. Cities in rebuilding mode offer amazing opportunities for small businesses"
- Jordan Dolson, Legacy Greens

The Kitchener BIA was a deciding factor in our opening in the region. The rollout of the patio program perfectly highlighted their determination to put small businesses first. Since opening, we've been supported, accommodated, and consulted regularly by the BIA.
- Brandon Rennie, The Civil

The Downtown Kitchener BIA is an awesome group of people who genuinely want to improve the downtown core area!
- Irfan Darsot, Ace Shawarma & Burgers and Big D’s Hot Chicken

The BIA has grown from a position of cultural/activity helpers to an organization of guidance. They are savvy, and have their hands on the pulse of our evolving Downtown landscape. And, more great things to follow!
- Scott Hunter, KW Book Store

As a new business owner, I didn’t know much about the BIA beforehand, but the team approached me while we were still working on the restaurant's construction. I can say that every person from the team has been amazing and supportive, and all the events that they do to keep downtown a destination for everyone are just amazing. I can't wait to see and be part of what Downtown Kitchener holds in the future.
- Fernando Arturo de la Rosa Toro, Casa Toro 88

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for the outstanding events you have organized throughout the past and current year and for being an incredible support to TWH Social Bar & Bistro. Your meticulous planning and attention to detail have consistently resulted in successful and engaging events that have brought our community together meaningfully. Your dedication and professionalism are evident in every aspect of your work, making our collaboration a truly enriching experience. Thank you for your unwavering support and for always going above and beyond to ensure excellence.
- Ranjit Roy, Walper Hotel / TWH Social