The West Broadway Business Improvement Association (WBBIA) is made up of local businesses and property owners who work together to build community, boost vitality, and better support small businesses, initiatives, and events in the neighbourhood. Businesses in this area of the city are being impacted by the current Broadway development, which is why they especially need support now. We talked with Executive Director Michelle Barile to learn more.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
Formed in 2011, the West Broadway Business Improvement Association (WBBIA) consists of businesses and property owners on West Broadway from Collingwood to Larch St. Led by a volunteer Board of local business owners and our Executive Director, we are committed to enhancing the vitality of the business community. Initiatives include street enhancement, marketing, events, partnerships and advocacy to support local businesses and benefit the community.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Operating a business can be challenging, especially in these economic times. We aim to help businesses thrive, not just survive, by promoting, enhancing, connecting and advocating for the business area and local businesses. We also collaborate with BIAs across the city and province on various initiatives from events to advocacy, to provide even greater support through our collective voice and resources.
When did you start/join it?
2007 at the Commercial Drive BIA. I’ve been with the West Broadway BIA since its formation in 2011, and operated both the West Broadway BIA and Point Grey Village BIA from 2011-2015.
What made you want to get involved?
I grew up in a small business, making railings at my Dad’s railing factory (coincidentally called Broadway Manufacturing!), and waitressing at my Mom’s restaurant (and routinely breaking dishes. OPA!). I’ve always enjoyed creating initiatives and connecting and collaborating with the community to make things better together. I feel very fortunate to have grown in this industry as a project manager, designer, copywriter, event planner, and more – it’s dynamic, challenging and rewarding – and truly a labour of love!
What was the situation like when you started?
There were definitely some growing pains that were alleviated with beneficial experiences when I started – developing a budget and initiatives for the first time, building new relationships with local stakeholders, managing expectations, leveraging opportunities and partnerships, and focusing on priorities that would make the greatest impact. Prior to becoming the West Broadway BIA, the local merchants’ association was a wonderful organization that planted the seed for our BIA.
How has it changed since?
Through creativity, collaboration, community partnerships and sponsorship, we’ve been able to increase our budget and resources incrementally over the last 14 years. We’ve also strengthened our partnership with BIAs across the city and province. This has enabled us to implement impactful projects and events to benefit the business area and community at-large.
What more needs to be done?
BIAs are very resourceful in supporting local businesses and enhancing retail neighbourhoods through community events, marketing, street enhancement (including public art, street furniture, plazas, street lighting, banners, street cleaning and safety), community partnerships and advocacy. However, we can be limited by our budgets and capacity. For example, as a newer BIA relative to others in the city, the West Broadway BIA operates with mainly one staff and a smaller budget. The City collects a levy from commercial property owners (usually derived from tenants) within the BIA boundary, and provides it to the BIA. In addition to our budget, we will continue to seek opportunities for partnership and sponsorship to grow our initiatives, and provide an even greater impact for small businesses and the community that they serve.
How can our readers help?
Getting involved by volunteering or through partnership or sponsorship opportunities would be greatly appreciated! For potential sponsors, we are a worthwhile investment in the places and spaces that make Vancouver an amazing place to be! BIAs are dynamic organizations with a wellspring of ideas and initiatives that benefit businesses, residents and communities at-large. We can provide exceptional community engagement value for our partners and very positive vibes!
Do you have any events coming up?
Yes! Music and a Movie at Kits Beach (August 5th), Music and a Movie at Connaught Park (Sept 5).
Where can we follow you?
Website | Instagram | Facebook
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
I love so many!! The Kelty Foundation, the SPCA, Music Heals, Food Stash, West Side Family Place, Kitsilano Neighbourhood House, The Kettle Friendship Society, and Coast Mental Health. If I had to choose just one, it would be the SPCA.
