The DBIA
What is the DBIA?
The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is a non-profit organization that champions the continuing commercial development of the Peterborough downtown. We partner with businesses and advocate on their behalf. We are a group of entrepreneurs and visionaries who live and work in the downtown core and represent the members of this community.
Our goals are bold and ambitious, and we get things done. We dedicate our time to understanding the complexities of local issues and we build strong partnerships for the mutual benefit of local enterprises and the Peterborough community. We are your passionate and informed voice for diverse social issues that impact our core.
Message from Sacha Lai-Svirk, Chairperson
The DBIA Commits to Leading Positive Change in the City
Having stepped into the role of DBIA Board Chair, during an ever-evolving pandemic and, as a George Street business owner for almost two decades, I am continually inspired by the resilience of our local business owners and the enduring support of our city.
Hi, I’m Sacha Lai-Svirk and on behalf of the DBIA Board and team, we believe in our downtown. We believe our downtown businesses are the foundation of future growth for Peterborough. And, we believe community support is the key to unlock the potential of the next generation of entrepreneurs, residents and changemakers. It is time to focus on what The DBIA is here for; to work together in championing small businesses, our community well-being and showcase all that’s good in Peterborough – our history, our provisions, our culture and our changemakers. As a Board, we are committed to working hard for the hundreds of members and families we serve. We look forward to working together in our efforts to bring lasting change to Peterborough.
Lastly, I’d also like to thank Terry, Hillary, Dawn and welcome the new Vice-Chair Laura Montague and the new Board of Directors. Their energy and collaborative spirit are already having a positive impact and I look forward to introducing them all very soon!
Sacha Lai-Svirk,
DBIA Board Chair and Partner at Outpost379
Our Team
Terry Guiel
Terry was hired as the executive director of the DBIA in 2013. As a former City Councillor he comes with a wealth of knowledge in how a city operates. With a background as a legal assistant and a professional event organizer and entertainer, Terry brings a unique and diverse skill set to his role. Terry has served on over 40 boards and committees over the years and was elected to the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA ) board of directors in 2020. He is a three-time Community Betterment Award recipient and has led Peterborough’s BIA to multiple OBIAA Awards.
Hillary Flood
Hillary grew up just outside the downtown of Peterborough and has dedicated her career to enhancing the livability and vibrancy of her hometown. Working primarily in the non-profit sector Hillary has managed a number of high-profile projects including Peterborough Pulse, 100in1Day, Bike-Friendly Business, and Win this Space. Hillary brings to the team a love for all things Peterborough and a unique community-based lens to the role of Vibrancy Manager.
Shivaan Burke
Shivaan comes to the DBIA with a background in environmental science and eight years of experience working in community engagement across the public, private and nonprofit sectors. Moving to Peterborough in 2008 to live downtown and attend Trent University, Shivaan loves the restaurant scene, access to farmers markets and community events that make our downtown shine. As the Program & Engagement Coordinator at the DBIA Shivaan looks forward to building meaningful connections with businesses and patrons of the downtown to enhance opportunities and experiences for everyone.
Amanda McBain
Amanda is a visual storyteller and marketing specialist who has been working with the DBIA since 2021 in support of a number of projects and events. Having studied creative advertising and graphic design, Amanda’s background includes working locally with community organizations as well as small businesses to help them elevate their brands, and brings a diverse set of skills and creative approach to the organization. She is an ongoing member of multiple committees relating to downtown events and culture, such as First Friday Peterborough.Board of Directors
Michael Cherney
Sacha Lai-Svirk
Laura Montague
Brad Collyer
Neil Hannam
Paul Hurley
Madeleine Hurrell
Joe Rees
Nigel Lister
Alex Bierk
Mark Million
Tiffany Arcari
Jason Wilkins
Downtown Boundaries
Peterborough is an amazing community to live and work in. A vibrant downtown is surrounded by a central area next to the beautiful Otonabee River on the Trent Severn waterway. The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area is roughly located within the following boundaries: West to Bethune Street, East to the Otonabee River, North to Murray Street, and South to Dalhousie Street.
