BIA Bucks Are Back!
In an era where one-click purchases and sprawling big-box retailers are the norm, the importance of supporting local businesses can sometimes fade into the background. That’s where the Ambleside Dundarave Business Improvement Association’s BIA Bucks program comes in. Launched in 2021, the initiative was created to encourage people to keep their spending close to home, and five years in, it continues to grow in both reach and impact.
BIA Bucks function as community gift certificates that can be spent like cash at participating businesses throughout Ambleside and Dundarave. From a morning coffee or a night out for dinner to finding a one-of-a-kind gift, BIA Bucks offer a simple, flexible way to enjoy everything the neighbourhood has to offer while supporting local entrepreneurs.
The past few months, in particular, have been especially challenging for local retailers and restaurants. In Ambleside, the spillover effects of pay parking in Ambleside Park have made nearby parking harder to find for customers, while ongoing construction in Dundarave has created additional access and visibility challenges. Together, these pressures have made this a particularly difficult year for many businesses, as they work hard to maintain foot traffic and serve their communities amid circumstances largely beyond their control.
An important feature of the program is that the ADBIA fully reimburses participating businesses for any BIA Bucks they collect. This ensures businesses never incur out-of-pocket costs while still benefiting from increased customer visits and spending. In fact, many retailers and restaurants report that BIA Bucks provide a welcome financial boost during what is traditionally a very quiet time of year, helping to smooth seasonal slowdowns and support day-to-day operations.
The benefits extend to everyone involved. Shoppers gain an easy and meaningful way to support local, while businesses enjoy increased foot traffic, repeat visits, and greater visibility. The program also encourages people to explore the neighbourhood, often leading them to discover new favourite spots they might not have found otherwise. For business owners, BIA Bucks help reinforce Ambleside and Dundarave as lively destinations where people want to shop, dine, and spend their time.
At its heart, the BIA Bucks program is about strengthening the local economy. By keeping more dollars circulating within the community, BIA Bucks help independent businesses remain resilient and vibrant. Every purchase made with BIA Bucks directly supports the shops, cafés, restaurants, and services that give Ambleside and Dundarave their distinctive character.
BIA Bucks were distributed at the end of February through Canada Post to all homes and businesses that accept unsolicited mail. To learn more or to check out the participating businesses this year, please visit our website at www.adbia.ca/bia-bucks.
