The DWBIA fully supports the arts, culture and heritage – and because of this has introduced the Arts, Cultural and Heritage Rent Subsidy Program (ARSP). This program subsidizes the rent for up to four arts, culture and heritage businesses on a yearly basis to fill previously unoccupied buildings with new business. The DWBIA offers grant funding for a portion of monthly commercial rent for up 50% of the rent to a maximum of $1,800 for a consecutive 12-month period for selected applicants.
Application Form
All DWBIA members with a first-floor commercial property (and in good standing) can take advantage of this program, which reimburses owners for 50% of the cost of glass repairs or replacement to a maximum of $500 one time per year per business address.
Guidelines & Online Application
In an effort to fill previously unoccupied buildings with new businesses, the DWBIA is proud to offer the Business Incentive Program. Its goal to be able to both stimulate and expand upon the development of the downtown core, and offers successful applicants grant funding for a portion of monthly commercial rent of up to 25% (or a maximum $625) for 12 months. Subject to the DWBIA’s budget, new businesses must meet the DWBIA’s eligibility guidelines and must submit a business plan demonstrating their ability remain in business for at least three years. Eligible sectors include drinking and dining services, technology, vintage/antique stores, boutique gyms, home décor and grocery.
Application Form
Beginning June 1st, 2022, the DWBIA will be providing free trash bin locks to all DWBIA members. We believe that these measures will significantly minimize the theft of and vandalism to trash bins. See more details and lock request form.
The DWBIA matches 50% of all plant, plant materials, planter and flower purchases for the express purposes of beautifying downtown commercial businesses, up to a maximum of $250 (excluding HST).
Guidelines & Online Application
Free wireless internet is provided by the DWBIA and available to anyone with a wireless phone or electronic device. Instructions on how to connect are here.
Downtown Windsor will sparkle with an extra dose of festive cheer, thanks to a partnership between the Downtown Windsor BIA and Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island. This creative initiative brings together local artists and businesses in a collaborative effort to enhance the holiday ambiance, support the community, and transform storefront windows into vibrant works of art. The program aims to celebrate the season while promoting local talent and encouraging foot traffic to downtown businesses.
Sharps disposal bins are available throughout the community in an effort to encourage intravenous drug users to get rid of their dirty needles more safely. A contractor employed by the DWBIA is responsible for the regular collection of needles and other drug paraphernalia.
Needle Report Request
Because sidewalk cafes aid in creating a warm, inviting atmosphere and an air of friendliness to any community, the DWBIA wants to encourage café merchants to open up their doors and support a vibrant sidewalk café culture. They’ll do this by advancing the business owner – a merchant who operates either a restaurant, bar or mini café — the City’s $1,000 refundable indemnity fee. Merchants are asked to fill out an application form, and subsidies will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis and capped at an amount determined yearly by the DWBIA.
Application Form
It’s important to the DWBIA to promote its members not just to its residents but to the hundreds of thousands of visitors the downtown core greets each year. To that end, the DWBIA participates in seasonal advertising through a variety of media platforms, inviting residents and visitors to come out and see what downtown Windsor has to offer, at any time of year. The DWBIA also invites its members to participate in co-operative marketing ventures, which will maximize your advertising dollars.
The DWBIA works diligently to ensure a clean, safe and attractive pedestrian environment, ensuring the downtown sidewalks are swept clean seven days a week. In an effort to maintain cleanliness, the DWBIA follows a power washing service schedule during the spring and summer.