At last month’s Annual General Meeting, we had the opportunity to reflect on what the Vanier BIA accomplished in 2025—and, just as importantly, to look ahead to how we’ll continue supporting our business community in 2026.
The past year was about strengthening foundations, increasing visibility for our businesses, and investing in the people and places that make Vanier thrive. As we move forward, our focus remains clear: continue building momentum in ways that directly benefit our members and our mainstreets.
A Strong Year of Impact in 2025
In 2025, your levy supported a wide range of initiatives designed to promote Vanier businesses, improve the public realm, and strengthen community safety and connection.
Growing visibility and brand awareness remained a major priority. We expanded digital content across all platforms, rebranded VBIA signature events, and continued to grow our monthly newsletter and Merchant Monday video series. Together, these efforts helped amplify local businesses, drive traffic to the Member Directory, and position Vanier as a vibrant place to shop, dine, and do business.
We also introduced new tools and resources for members, including an expanded Merchant Hub, a refreshed business directory, and new BIA-created tools and worksheets—laying the groundwork for even more practical supports in the year ahead.
On the ground, we invested in placemaking and beautification, with continued streetscape branding, new flower pots, public realm planning work on Beechwood and McArthur, and the production of new gateway signage scheduled for installation in 2026. These efforts help reinforce Vanier’s identity and create welcoming, walkable mainstreets for customers and businesses alike.
Supporting Safety, Advocacy, and Community Partnerships
Supporting business safety and advocacy continued to be a core focus. In 2025, we worked closely with merchants and the Ottawa Police Service on break-ins and safety concerns, supported new grant opportunities, strengthened crime-prevention collaboration through HUB coalitions, and built relationships that help ensure business voices are heard.
At the same time, we remained active at the municipal, provincial, and national levels—participating in task forces, consultations, and industry associations. These partnerships allow us to advocate effectively on behalf of Vanier businesses and secure funding and opportunities that benefit the entire community.
Investing in Events, Culture, and Connection
Signature events continued to play an important role in bringing people to Vanier and supporting local businesses. From Summer Sun and BeechFest to Partage Beechwood and Akoustik—including new cultural partnerships like Folk Canada—these events increased foot traffic, showcased local talent, and strengthened Vanier’s reputation as a cultural destination.
Behind the scenes, we also invested in member services and engagement, including welcome kits, “who to call” resources, quarterly meetups, and opportunities for merchants to connect, collaborate, and be recognized—culminating in the launch of the new Vanier BIA Merchant Awards.
A Solid Financial Foundation
2025 closed with a balanced budget, improved financial policies and procedures, and continued success in securing grants to support programming and capital investments. These included funding for murals, graffiti prevention, signage, summer jobs, and major community projects such as the HUB.
This strong financial footing allows us to move into 2026 with confidence—focused on impact, accountability, and meaningful investment in our business community.
What We’re Building in 2026
Looking ahead, 2026 is about continuity and growth.
Our priorities include:
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Completing streetscape and beautification projects
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Continuing to invest in Akoustik and other signature events
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Advancing major public realm initiatives, including the HUB, Vélo Vanier, and Beechwood improvements
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Expanding member services, tools, and events
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Collecting better data to guide decision-making
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Preparing for the next strategic plan (2026–2030)
At every step, our goal remains the same: to ensure your levy is working for you—supporting your business, strengthening Vanier’s economy, and building a mainstreet community we can all be proud of.
Thank You for Being Part of It
None of this work happens in isolation. It’s made possible through collaboration—with our board, staff, partners, and most importantly, our members.
As we look ahead to 2026, we’re excited to keep building on this momentum together.