About Us

The White Rock Business Improvement Association is a not for profit business enhancement collective of retail, service, and commercial property owners within the defined White Rock business improvement areas of Uptown, Five Corners East Beach and West Beach.  Governed by a voluntary board of directors, the BIA was created in 2005 to promote enhance and champion a vibrant White Rock Business community.  At present, the BIA represents more than 300 members.

The BIA is as strong as its members, and as effective as the level of participation of the membership.  Board members provide time and effort with countless volunteer hours for the benefit of its members; we hope and encourage all members to participate in WRBIA events, projects and ongoing programs designed to improve your businesses and properties.  Board members and BIA members have donated furniture, manpower, web design, and publishing services for the mutual goals of all members of the BIA.

The White Rock BIA was voted for a five year renewal by its members and the City of White Rock in 2010.

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Districts

White Rock is a vibrant community with four distinct districts: Uptown, Five Corners, West & East Beach, each boasting a large variety of independent, one-of-a-kind businesses and shops.

Uptown

At the core of Uptown White Rock is the town centre, which has a unique mix of shopping malls and plazas within walking distance of one another, offering a wide variety of specialty shops, sidewalk cafes and charming boutiques.

Five Corners

The Five Corners Area is quickly earning a well-deserved reputation as home to truly memborable dining experiences that dare to be different from the traditional fare closer to the beach.  It's a fun shopping district too, featuring fashion boutiques, beauty salons and cozy coffee shops.

East Beach

You won't find any impersonal, cookie-cutter hotel rooms here.  Just cozy, one-of-a-kind B&Bs and well appointed suites in a boutique style, oceanfront hotel.  From freshly scooped gelato, to succulent steaks and seafood, you'll find much to tickle your taste buds.

West Beach

Stroll along the historic pier and find hidden treasures including one-of-a-kind shops, galleries and restaurants.  It's also bursting with with dining options, from award-winning fine dining to local favourites, cafes and bistros.

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Board of Directors

BIA Executive Director

The Executive Director is a key position responsible for all the day to day operations of the BIA as well as coordinating campaigns and projects, liaising with the membership, community groups, and the municipality, and generally managing the business of the BIA.  Don Gilroy is the current Executive Director.

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Committees

Nomination & Membership

The Purpose of the Nomination & Membership Committee is responsible for seeking, evaluationg and recommending nominees for appointment and election to the Board as Directors as part of the WRBIA policy.  As part of their responsibility the committee is responsible for recruitment and retention of members, organising member events and working with members so their concerns are heard and included in the strategy of the WRBIA.  Through its evening seminars, the Committee will present topics aimed at assisting BIA Members to continue to improve their businesses and properties.

Beautification & Revitalization

The purpose of the Beautification and Revitalization Committee is to establish a beautiful commercial core in the four districts that will increase foot traffic and bring more visitors to the city by developing programs that allow merchants and other stakeholders to apply for support to beautify and build an attractive, welcoming White Rock Commercial Area.  The overarching goal is to establish a positive atmosphere that will naturally draw more people, in the form of shoppers and businesses which translates into further success and and investment in the City. The committee will also work towards building awareness, support and involvement from all aspects of the community for the revitalization of White Rock.  Encourage owner’s maintenance of clean and attractive

Economic & Strategic Planning

The purpose of the Economic & Strategic Planning Committee is to be the official voice for the White Rock’s commercial districts.  The WRBIA will participate in the community planning process to ensure that the interests of commercial property owners and business operators are fully addressed in the development of new plans and policies.  The WRBIA will gather and disseminate relevant planning information to its members, and will survey the membership for input on key issues.

Marketing

The purpose of the Marketing Committee is to market White Rock’s diverse commercial areas under one distinctive brand.  The committee works towards promoting and advertising its members and the Area through dynamic and cohesive Shop Local campaigns and programs.  Create and develop a distinctive “White Rock” brand in the market place and promote it to targeted audiences.  

Events

The purpose of the Events Committee is to develop and annual program of special events and to undertake the detailed planning and implementation of events, with the support of BIA Staff.  Where possible the events will build on the theme of a unified White Rock, with connectivity between its commercial areas.  In addition to community wide events, the BIA works to develop special events to highlight certain types of businesses and in each distinct district of White Rock.  The WRBIA is also able to assist in financial support and general assistance for events located within the BIA area.

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