2026 Professional Development Day
EVENT DETAILS
2026 Professional Development Day – Placemaking & Partnerships
What does it take to build a Main Street that truly works for businesses, communities, and everyone in between?
Join us in Burlington for the 2026 OBIAA Professional Development Day as we explore the power of partnerships and the impact of thoughtful placemaking. From collaboration between BIAs to designing inclusive spaces and experiences, this day will offer practical ideas and inspiration you can take back to your community.
AGENDA
- 8:30 am – Breakfast
- 9:15 am – Welcome & Introductions
- 9:45 am – Beautification & Placemaking: One Mandate, Different Realities
- 10:45 am – The Power of Partnership Panel
- 12:00 pm – Lunch
- 1:00 pm – Community Tour of Burlington Downtown
- 2:30 pm – Placemaking in Action: A Collaborative Workshop
- 4:30 pm – Closing Remarks and End of Day
Why Attend
✔ Learn practical strategies for building strong BIA partnerships
✔ Explore real-world placemaking in Downtown Burlington
✔ Gain insights on inclusive design and community engagement
✔ Connect with peers from across Ontario
The evening prior will offer opportunities for connection, learning, and fellowship through curated activities in Downtown Burlington.
Full program details below. Register today to secure your spot!
WATCH THE EVENT RECAP HERE
SPEAKER PRESENTATIONS
Meet The Hosts
The Burlington Downtown BIA – From waterfront events and public realm improvements to innovative beautification projects, Burlington Downtown BIA continues to create vibrant experiences for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.
Meet our second host: Aldershot Village BIA – Known for its strong community partnerships, local business support, and creative placemaking initiatives, Aldershot Village demonstrates how meaningful impact can be achieved through collaboration and community engagement. We look forward to showcasing their work this September.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
PRESENTING SPONSOR
MAJOR SPONSOR
Sponsorship Opportunities
EVENT VENUE: WATERFRONT HOTEL – DOWNTOWN BURLINGTON
Address: 2020 Lakeshore Rd, Burlington, ON L7R 4G8
Located in the heart of Downtown Burlington, the Waterfront Hotel offers a unique lakeside setting that blends natural beauty with vibrant urban energy. Positioned steps from the waterfront and within walking distance of the downtown core, the venue provides an ideal backdrop for learning, connection, and exploration.
The 2026 OBIAA Professional Development Day will be a dynamic day of sessions, networking, and collaboration. With proximity to Burlington’s Main Street, the event will seamlessly integrate indoor learning with real-world placemaking experiences.
Through curated walking tours and local insights, attendees will have the opportunity to explore how partnerships, thoughtful design, and long-term planning contribute to building inclusive and thriving Main Streets.
PARKING
Paid parking is available on-site at the Waterfront Hotel.
The cost of parking is approximately $19.47 + tax per vehicle, per day.
ACCOMMODATIONS
For those requiring accommodations, OBIAA has secured a room block at the Waterfront Hotel – Downtown Burlington.
Burlington Waterfront Hotel
2020 Lakeshore Rd, Burlington, ON L7R 4G8
Rate: $197.10 CAD per night + applicable taxes (HST + MAT)
Room Types: A mix of King and Two Queen rooms
Date: Applicable for the night of Monday, September 28, 2026
TO BOOK, PLEASE CALL 905-681-5400 or 1-877-681-0767
Quote Group Code: OBIAA2026
Cut-off Date: August 28, 2026
Rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Additional Notes:
Rates include complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi
Parking is available at approximately $19.47 + tax per vehicle, per day
Check-in: 3:00 PM | Check-out: 12:00 PM
THE GASLIGHT DISTRICT
SPEAKERS
Please stay tuned for our speaker announcements!
Brian will be participating in this discussion, along with Andrea Dodd.
ABOUT BRIAN:
Sir Brian is a 25 year veteran of small business communities, having worked in Burlington and St. Catharines. And yes, he was around when OBIAA was born.
Brian is affectionately known in BIA circles as ‘Sir’ for his leadership and obvious chivalry. Sir Bian is largely considered an all around nice guy.
Andrea will be participating in this discussion, along with Brian Dean.
ABOUT ANDREA:
Andrea Dodd is passionate about connecting people and strengthening communities. As Executive Director of the Aldershot Village BIA, she leads initiatives that support local businesses through collaboration, marketing, and placemaking. Andrea enjoys sharing Aldershot’s success story and inspiring others with practical ideas for creating vibrant, connected, and thriving business communities.
High value speakers and professional development content including industry subject matter expert speakers
A tour of the local Main Street and BIA
A Continental Breakfast and a Hot Lunch
Networking Opportunities
Andrea Steenbakkers | Chair | Barrhaven BIA
Kerry Jarvi | Chair | City of Woodstock
Liz Behrens | Volunteer
Sara Porter | Southampton BIA
Kelly Ralston | Port Credit BIA
Brian Dean | Downtown Burlington BIA
Jaclyn Jones | Downtown Burlington BIA
Andrea Dodd | Aldershot BIA
Rachel Braithwaite | OBIAA Executive Director
Erin Douglas | OBIAA Admin & Membership Manager
Kennishia Duffus | OBIAA Events and Sponsorship Manager
For Additional Information
If you require any further information, please contact OBIAA at 647-521-5341 email [email protected]