In response to ongoing economic uncertainty and the impact of U.S. tariffs, Ottawa’s BIAs have united around a powerful, coordinated message: shop local, support local, and invest in our communities.

Led by the Centretown BIA, a new pilot project is bringing together neighbourhoods including Glebe, Downtown, Chinatown, ByWard Market, Somerset Village, and others to deliver a creative and community-focused Shop Local campaign. Using a brand ambassador to engage residents on the street, the initiative rewards shoppers who name their favourite local businesses with...

At the 2025 Ontario BIA Association (OBIAA) Awards, three Ottawa BIAs were honoured for their outstanding contributions to placemaking, marketing, and community impact. These projects show what’s possible when BIAs collaborate, create, and lead with purpose.

Vanier BIA – Awards of Merit for their Akoustik Music Series and Rebrand Project

Glebe BIA – Award of Merit for Glebe Spree

Downtown Rideau BIA – Award of Excellence for their Comprehensive Marketing Rebrand

The former Sparks Street BIA has officially rebranded as the Downtown BIA, expanding its boundaries beyond Sparks Street to include a significant portion of Ottawa’s downtown core. The change marks a strategic shift — one focused on better supporting small businesses beyond a single pedestrian mall and unifying mainstreet efforts across the city’s centre.

The expansion brings new businesses into the fold, offering them access to BIA services, advocacy, marketing, and streetscape support. It also reflects the growing importance of cohesive, city-facing mainstreet strategies in post-pandemic economic recovery.

The Downtown BIA aims to revitalize Ottawa’s core as a vibrant, multi-use destination, supporting everything from office and retail to nightlife and cultural space