About BLOX BIA

Who We Are

The BLOX Business Improvement Area (BIA) is a dedicated organization committed to fostering a vibrant, dynamic, and thriving community. We support approximately 320 businesses in the Beltline, with boundaries extending from 2nd Street SW to 9th Street SW along 10th, 11th, and 12th Avenue. Through economic development, cultural initiatives, and community engagement, we enhance the artistic and commercial landscape of our neighborhood. By bringing together businesses, entrepreneurs, artists, and residents, we strive to create an inclusive and engaging environment where creativity and commerce intersect.

What is a Business Improvement Area BIA? 

A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is a designated district where local businesses work together to enhance and promote their community. Funded by businesses within the area, a BIA focuses on beautifying streets, organizing events, improving safety, and supporting economic growth. It helps create a vibrant, welcoming environment for visitors, residents, and businesses alike. There are 15 BIAs in Calgary.

What We Do

At BLOX BIA, we believe in the power of community and collaboration. Our initiatives focus on:

• Business Support & Advocacy – We provide resources, marketing initiatives, and advocacy efforts to help local businesses thrive. Through promotional campaigns, networking opportunities, and partnerships, we work to increase visibility and drive traffic to our businesses. We also advocate on behalf of our members, ensuring their voices are heard in municipal decisions that impact our community.
• Public Events & Engagement – From markets to festivals, we host events that bring people together and celebrate the unique character of our community. Our events create a vibrant atmosphere that attracts visitors, fosters connections, and encourages people to explore the businesses, services, and cultural offerings within our district.
• Beautification & Placemaking – We work to enhance public spaces, making our area more inviting, accessible, and enjoyable for all. This includes street cleaning, murals, planters, bike racks, public art installations, and initiatives that contribute to the overall aesthetic and livability of our district. 
• Cultural & Artistic Development – As a champion of the arts, we actively support local artists, performers, and creative projects that enrich our neighborhood.

BLOX Arts Centre – Our Community Arts Hub

The BLOX BIA proudly operates the BLOX Arts Centre, our community’s vibrant hub. This dynamic space fosters artistic growth through performances, workshops, exhibitions, and collaborative projects, providing opportunities for artists and the community to connect and thrive.

More than just a space for artists, the BLOX Arts Centre is a driving force for local businesses, attracting visitors who shop, dine, and explore the area before and after events. Whether it’s grabbing a meal before a performance, enjoying drinks after an art show, or discovering new shops, the arts centre helps generate foot traffic and energize the local economy. It also creates opportunities for collaboration between businesses and artists, fostering a stronger sense of community and making the BLOX district an exciting and dynamic destination for all.