Celebrating BIA Week

“Oh, they put up the flowers again.”
“Oh, they switched the banners.”
“Oh, they're hosting another event on the plaza.”

— If you’ve ever wondered who they are, hi, it’s us. 👋

We’re the South Granville Business Improvement Association (BIA). And during BIA Week (April 13–19), we’re pulling back the curtain a little to show you what we do, how we do it, and why it matters—not just for businesses, but for everyone who lives, works, shops, strolls, and sips in this neighbourhood.

So… What Exactly is a BIA?

BIAs exist all across British Columbia (there are over 80 of us!), and we all share a common mission: to keep our neighbourhoods vibrant, thriving, and full of life. That means helping small businesses succeed, enhancing public spaces, supporting local events, advocating for policy change, and creating a place people want to return to - again and again.

In South Granville, that work takes on many forms. It’s the seasonal flowers and sleek street banners. It’s the spring plaza installations you stop to snap a photo of. It’s the neighbourhood concerts, markets, and community events that bring people together. It’s the behind-the-scenes advocacy on everything from commercial tax fairness to infrastructure improvements. It’s the team scrubbing graffiti off the sidewalk before you start your morning coffee run.

If it makes the neighbourhood feel safer, cleaner, and more welcoming, chances are, we’ve had a hand in it.

Here for the Long Game

Our work is about more than just events and aesthetics (though those are pretty fun). It’s about building a community where businesses can thrive, locals feel proud, and visitors feel at home.

We advocate on behalf of our members at every level of government, push for better infrastructure and services, and work hard to amplify the voices of South Granville’s businesses - both longstanding icons and fresh new faces.

Why #BIAWeek matters

This week is about more than celebrating our work - it’s about recognising how neighbourhoods function when community, creativity, and collaboration come together.

When you shop at a local store, dine at a nearby café, or attend a plaza event, you're not just enjoying a great experience- you’re supporting a whole ecosystem that makes it possible.

So here’s to the “they” behind the flowers, the banners, and the beautiful chaos of a thriving main street. And here’s to you, for being part of it. 💛

Happy #BIAWeek!