National Network of IDA Canada

IDA Canada, a national coalition of the International Downtown Association, represents organizations across the country that manage Canada’s business districts, making them vital places in the nation’s identity and economic engines of healthy cities and regions. As a current member of IDA, you are also a part of the new National Network of IDA Canada which provides engagement opportunities, best practice resources and solutions, and advocacy efforts on national matters related to community building and placemaking. 
In addition to all of your IDA membership benefits, enjoy access to the National Network Discussion, a virtual online community forum to engage with your peers, and the National Network Knowledge Centre, a library of Canadian-specific electronic resources, toolkits and best practices.   Community Discussion The National Network of IDA Canada Discussion Board offers an easy one-stop-shop for connecting and engaging with your peers across Canada and exchanging ideas. Quickly ask and respond to questions to make better, faster decisions. Get started accessing the discussion board or view a refresher on posting to IDEA Connection. Make sure you are set to receive the Daily Digest email notifications so you stay in the know on topics being discussed! Remember, sharing is a two-way street, so if you have a helpful tip or experience, be sure to jump into the conversation. Together, we’ll grow the body of knowledge and best practices for our industry.   

Introducing One National Voice: An Urban Agenda 2019

One National Voice: An Urban Agenda 2019 and the accompanying Policy Framework are the result of conversations with IDA members across Canada and identify five national issues considered to be of greatest importance to place management organizations. It is the first initiative of the National Network of IDA Canada designed to create a clearer, united voice on national issues affecting the downtowns and main streets of Canada’s cities and towns. IDA Canada is working to distribute these documents to the 500+ organizations with the help of our provincial and regional umbrella organizations. Here’s how you can get involved!

Federal Election: Reaching out to Your Local Candidates.

We are asking that you present One National Voice to political candidates from all parties running in this fall’s federal election, and suggest personalizing your presentations with local examples relevant to the five issues identified.

National News Release

We have sent out a national news release about One National Voice and invite you to tailor a version to emphasize those aspects most relevant to your area, and send to your local media.

All-Candidates Debate Based on the experiences of some larger BIAs across the country during the 2015 Federal Election, we suggest BIAs attend candidates’ debate(s) focused on local issues and issues relevant to all BIAs across our country. They are very effective means of having each candidate explain to your members and the public where they stand on issues important to us.  Here is an example from the remarkable BIDs in the Halifax Regional Municipality which have worked together to present an event. (Note check with your municipality, some municipalities do not allow their BIA (Local Boards) to actually hold/organize this type of event).

Join the Conversation!Are you on participating in your local All Candidates Debate? Provide your feedback, ideas and questions today by joining the conversation or starting your own thread! 

On behalf of the National Network, we thank you for your engagement and in this initiative in the coming federal election.

Note: IDA Canada, a national coalition of the International Downtown Association, represents organizations across the country that manage Canada’s business districts, making them vital places in the nation’s identity and key centres of economic wealth.