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
Nour Mazloum
Nour stepped into the role as the Executive Director of Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) in June, 2024. Prior to her role at Peterborough DBIA she led the development, writing and production of business collaterals, media strategies and public relations for Kingston Economic Development. She brings a wealth of experience, having also served as a Director at the Economic Developers Council of Ontario’s (EDCO) Board of Directors and as the Co-Chair of its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. Nour's contributions have been recognized with EDCO’s 2021 President Award and the 2022 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Influencer of the Year Award. She was recently honoured as Ontario's Champion of Diversity. Nour holds a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Philosophy and Political Studies from Queen’s University and currently working towards her MBA at the Royal Military College of Canada.
Amanda Bedford
Amanda is a visual storyteller and marketing specialist who has been working with the DBIA since 2021 on a number of projects and events. Having studied Creative Advertising at Humber College and Graphic Design & Visual Communications at Fleming College, she had her own practice working locally with community organizations & small-medium sized businesses to help them elevate their brands through digital marketing, graphic design, and photography services. She brings a diverse set of skillsets and innovative vision to the DBIA, and is an ongoing member of multiple committees relating to downtown events and culture, such as First Friday Peterborough.
Tiffany Daskewich
Tiffany brings a wealth of experience from working closely with business owners to her new role as the Member Engagement Coordinator for the Peterborough DBIA. With years of dedicated service and a deep passion for community involvement, Tiffany is eager to bring her expertise into enhancing the vibrant heart of Downtown Peterborough. A lover of downtown’s dynamic atmosphere and its incredible dining spots, Tiffany’s connection to the community extends beyond her professional life. Her extensive volunteer work has allowed her to engage with local initiatives and foster strong community ties. Now, she’s excited to bring her energy and enthusiasm into supporting and revitalizing downtown Peterborough. Tiffany looks forward to collaborating with local businesses and visitors to make downtown a thriving hub of activity and connection.
Connor English
Connor is a lifelong Peterborough resident deeply committed to the city’s continued growth and revitalization. Growing up in Peterborough, Connor developed a strong connection to the community and a passion for supporting local businesses, having experienced firsthand the unique charm of the downtown core. Before joining the DBIA, Connor was a small business owner where he gained valuable insights into the needs and aspirations of local entrepreneurs. This background has made him a dedicated advocate for small business success, bringing a personal understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing downtown business owners. His experience on both sides of the table fuels their drive to ensure that the downtown remains an inclusive, thriving hub of commerce and culture.Board of Directors
Michael Cherney
Sacha Lai-Svirk
Brad Collyer
Neil Hannam
Paul Hurley
Madeleine Hurrell
Joe Rees
Nigel Lister
Alex Bierk
Tiffany Arcari
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.
