BIA Announcements

Dear Community Members,

I am writing in response to today’s announcement about the cancellation of Whitby Beerfest 2024. As the Executive Director of the Downtown Whitby Business Improvement Area (DWBIA), I would like to provide some clarity on this matter.

For those unfamiliar, a Business Improvement Area (BIA) is a geographically designated district where local businesses and property owners work collaboratively to enhance and promote their commercial area.

BIAs are funded through a special levy collected from property owners within the area, and these funds are used for a variety of initiatives, including marketing, events, beautification projects, and infrastructure improvements. It’s important to note that this levy is not funded by tax dollars; it comes directly from the pockets of the property owners and businesses in the area.

We aim to attract more visitors, increase foot traffic, and foster a vibrant and thriving local economy. The DWBIA Board of Directors is elected to represent the interests of all businesses and services within the BIA’s boundaries.

Earlier this year, the DWBIA membership of over 300 businesses, made the decision to pivot away from Beerfest and explore new event concepts that are more inclusive and equitable to it’s members and community.

This year marks a transitional period as we introduce new activations and events designed to engage visitors and residents of all ages and interests.

It’s important to clarify that the Whitby Chamber of Commerce, a separate organization from the DWBIA, took on the responsibility of organizing Beerfest in 2024. The decision to cancel the upcoming event was made by the current organizers and is not related to the DWBIA or the businesses and services we represent.

While we share the disappointment over the event’s cancellation, I hope this message helps clarify who was responsible for running Beerfest this year and provides insight into the role of the DWBIA and how we operate.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.