How can we help you today?
Access Programs & Grants
List on The Boro, sign up for the Holiday Passport, apply for Repairs or Event Support grants, join a committee, or find your way around DBIA benefits.
Locate downtownOpen a Business Here
Connect with Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development, the City’s permit and planning services, and the DBIA team on finding the right space.
Understand the DBIAAbout Our Organization
Our mission, vision, values, and six strategic priorities — plus Land Acknowledgement, governance, board and staff, and the DBIA boundary.
What the DBIA is known for.
Next · Oct 31
Halloween in the Booro
A spook-tacular trick-or-treat trail through the downtown core.
Launched 2025 · $1M+ lifetime sales
The Boro Gift Card
Available as a tap-to-pay digital card or a physical gift card, spendable at hundreds of downtown and East City businesses — an innovation leader among North American BIAs.
Six priorities guide everything we do
Economic Growth
Retain and attract entrepreneurs, fill vacant spaces, position downtown as the region’s economic asset.
Vibrancy
Festivals, pop-up markets, and community-driven initiatives that drive foot traffic and celebrate downtown.
Beauty
Public art, seasonal streetscaping, wayfinding signage, and green infrastructure pilots.
Brand
Marketing and communications that amplify local businesses and attract regional visitors.
Operations
Transparent governance, efficient workflows, and open communication with stakeholders.
Financial Resilience
Impactful investments, diversified funding through grants and sponsorships, and robust evaluation.
Hosting an event downtown? Let’s make it happen.
Planning an event in the core this fall or winter? The Community Event Support Grant backs community-led events with funding and in-kind help — marketing, permits, rentals, and logistics.