A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is an organized group of property owners and businesses within a specified geographic area that join together, upon approval of the municipality, to organize, finance and carry out physical improvements and promote economic development in their designated area. Each BIA has a board of management which is an organization set up to provide business promotion and improvement functions.

Oversee the improvement, beautification and maintenance of Downtown Port Colborne such as providing lighting, signage, and seasonal decorations.

Promote the area as a business or shopping area, encouraging local residents and tourists to shop and use services within the area.

Organize and work with community partners to hold special events and programs.

Advocate on behalf of the interests of the business improvement area and act as a voice for the business community.