About Us

The Story Behind YBID

 

Business owners are the backbone of any thriving city.

 

They drive local economies, spark innovation, and bring energy to the communities they serve. When these voices unite, their collective power becomes a strong force for progress.

 

In Yorkton, the desire for a united business voice has been building for years. Before 2004, this voice took the form of the Downtown Business Owners Association. While their mission—to enhance the appearance and vitality of Yorkton’s main shopping area—was admirable and their work impactful, one major barrier remained: a lack of sustainable funding.

 

After careful research and reviewing models from across Canada, it was determined that the best solution was to implement a Business Improvement District (BID) model—similar to those successfully operating in British Columbia.

 

In 2004, City of Yorkton Bylaw 27-2004 officially established the Yorkton Business Improvement District (YBID). This bylaw enabled funding through a small property levy collected from businesses within the district, which is matched annually by the City of Yorkton—ensuring consistent and reliable funding for improvements and initiatives.

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Moving Forward

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Today, YBID continues to be a catalyst for positive change, supporting local business development, beautification efforts, community events, and collaborative partnerships. We are committed to supporting businesses in our district and to fostering a vibrant, welcoming, and prosperous downtown core.