In this issue:
39 Days of July LAUNCH
The Duncan-Cowichan Festival Society invites everyone to the launch of 39 Days of July, 2024 on Wednesday, June 19th in City Square. Come to witness the big reveal – the line-up has never been better! The event starts at 6pm. Come and enjoy live music, hot dogs and grab some programs to distribute in your business or in your neighbourhood- “Let’s make this one a gooder” says Longevity John. We agree!
DDBIA Business Awards VOTING now OPEN
As you know, the DDBIA proudly boasts retailers, professional service businesses, and not-for-profit organizations among its members. Annually, in a bid to honour and celebrate our vibrant business community, we present two peer-voted awards at our annual general meeting (May 13th at 7:00 pm, Duncan United Church). These awards span two distinct categories: "Excellence and Innovation" and "Best New Business." Our aim is to shine a spotlight on members who have demonstrated excellence, innovation, talent, and exemplary service.
You will receive a unique email today. Click below to take a look at all the very deserving nominees!
It’s AGM time again – celebrating our wins and recognizing our Business Award Winners
Please join us for the DDBIA's Annual General Meeting on Monday, May 13 at 7:00 pm at the Duncan United Church. We're excited to show our members all that we accomplished in 2023. The AGM is a great opportunity to chat with the DDBIA Board and Staff, and catch up with others in the downtown business community. What else is in store? Snacks, refreshments and prizes of course! Thinking about joining the Board? There are 3 positions available, and nominations are encouraged from the floor that evening. And stay for the prestigious Business Awards and celebrate our winning businesses and organizations!
Welcome Katherine Dorma!
Katherine takes on the role of Social Media Specialist and is an accomplished social media content creator. She brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience that will benefit our downtown community. She looks forward to meeting all of you soon! Give her a wave, welcome and a smile when you see her out and about!
MMIGW event
This powerful installation (the hanging of red dresses in public spaces) holds profound historical and cultural significance in both Canadian and Indigenous contexts. It serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing crisis of murdered and missing Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people (MMIWG2S+). This day, marked by the display of red dresses in public spaces, is a solemn acknowledgment of the lives lost and the systemic issues that perpetuate these tragedies. For our community, recognizing the significance of hanging red dresses in public spaces is not only an act of remembrance but also a commitment to reconciliation. By participating in events and initiatives that honor MMIWG2S+ and raise awareness about the underlying issues, we can contribute to fostering a more inclusive and just society. This includes supporting Indigenous-led initiatives, advocating for policy changes, and engaging in dialogue to address the root causes of violence against Indigenous women and girls. May 5 is a powerful opportunity for our community to stand in solidarity, amplify Indigenous voices, and work towards healing and justice.
International Visitors hit downtown Duncan May 7
On May 7th, a contingent of 100 visitors, will be arriving in downtown Duncan from the International Seaweed Symposium to engage in a tour of the Cowichan Valley Museum and Archives and a Walking Tour of the Totems. They arrive in downtown Duncan around 11:00 am – so keep an eye out to welcome these prestigious international visitors to our downtown. And of course – think diatoms, zooplankton, cyanobacteria and dinoflagellates!
Securing small business rebate webinar
Recognizing the increased costs to businesses due to property crime and vandalism in rural and urban communities across the province, the Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation launched its $10.5 million Securing Small Business Rebate Program, that provides small businesses with funds for eligible commercial property crime and vandalism repairs, or to implement eligible preventative measures.
On May 7, at 11:00 am, attend a 1 hour webinar to learn more about the program, and most importantly – how to apply for a rebate! This webinar is designed to help small business owners prepare and submit a rebate application.
To learn more about webinar and the program as a whole, visit REBATE
Earth Day Post-Event Thank You
We wanted to take a moment to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Goldstone Boutique, Wishes, and PlentiFILL Refillery and Sustainability Store for their generous sponsorship of our Earth Day event. Your support was instrumental in making the day a huge success, and we couldn't have done it without you.
To everyone who came out to celebrate with us, thank you for joining in the festivities and showing your commitment to sustainability. Your enthusiasm and participation truly made the event special.
We hope that those who took advantage of the clothing swap are enjoying their fantastic new outfits this week! It's wonderful to see the community coming together to support eco-friendly initiatives like this.
Once again, thank you to our sponsors and everyone who attended. Let's continue to work together towards a greener, more sustainable future.
Member Social TONIGHT
Join us on April 25 at Cowichan Independent Living , 531 Canada Ave! Starting at 5pm there will refreshments, networking opportunities and activities!
Transform Your Storefront with the Facade Improvement Grant!
Are you looking to enhance the visual appeal of your business and make a lasting impression on customers? We are thrilled to offer you the opportunity to do just that through our Facade Improvement Grant!
How It Works
Make your plan and gather your documents: Submit your application to the DDBIA.
Approval Process: Ensure your application is complete and approved by the Development Committee.
Transform Your Business: With the grant secured, proceed with your exterior enhancements.
Submit receipts at the end of your project: Receive 50% of your spend up to $5,000 (before taxes).
Important Reminder: To qualify for the Facade Improvement Grant, your application must be complete and approved before any work begins. Don't miss out on this chance to invest in the visual appeal of your business and attract more customers! Questions or need assistance? Contact the DDBIA at ddbia@downtownduncan.ca. Email us and request the application or find it here on our website.
Grab Your Spot on the Digital Billboards for May and June!
Are you searching for opportunities to boost your visibility?
Digital Billboard Offer: For a dynamic and impactful presence, take advantage of our digital billboard located on Highway 1. Enjoy a two-week cycle of exclusive advertising for only $150. This limited-time offer ensures your message reaches a wide audience in a high-traffic area. Act fast to seize this incredible deal. For reservations and inquiries, contact us at ddbia@downtownduncan.ca.
Duncan Days 2024 NEEDS YOU!
Remember when you shared your love for Duncan Days back in February? Your enthusiasm for street closures and vibrant activities, especially for our young ones, was truly inspiring. We recognize the immense value Duncan Days brings to our downtown. That's why we're gearing up to make this year's Duncan Days an unforgettable experience. On March 21st, 16 downtown members (THANK YOU) met to brainstorm new kids’ street activities. Several attendees have already committed to taking ownership of a Saturday street activity. We need MORE help in sharing the load of planning, organizing, funding, and finding volunteers.
Please reach out to the ddbia@downtownduncan.ca or call us 250.715.1700 to share your ideas, to give us a hand and take on a kids’ activity on Saturday, July 13th. Stay tuned for emails directly to your inbox about the progress we are all making to make this year’s Duncan Days a spectacular success.
Future Events
· Applications for Duncan Days Vendors opens April 25
· DDBIA Business Awards – voting begins April 25.
· Member Social hosted by Cowichan Independent Living – April 25
· DDBIA AGM and Business Awards Celebration – May 13
· Duncan Days – July 12, 13 and 14
· Member Social – July 25 location TBD
· Member Social – November 7 location TDB
· Christmas Kick-Off – November 22nd
· Christmas Contest Window Themes (two BIG PRIZES this year): The Christmas Sweater OR West Coast Christmas.\
Canadian Independent Bookstore Day
Volume One Bookstore is hosting a Family-friendly event to celebrate Canadian Independent Bookstore Day. Join them on Saturday April 27th at 149 Kenneth Street from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm for a day of fun activities.
Children’s storytime
Free cookies from Mindful Mouthful
Gelato Truck, selling Gelato outside of the store.
Book lover’s contest
Contact Volume One Bookstore for more information!
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