Help shape the future of Yonge + St. Clair

If you’ve ever wanted a say in how your neighbourhood grows, here’s your chance.

The Yonge + St. Clair BIA is opening up a handful of volunteer seats for local office workers, business owners, and business representatives who want to help steer how public funding gets used for economic improvements in the community.

 

This isn’t a heavy commitment. We’re not talking about boardroom politics or long nights of paperwork. It’s just one hour a month to meet, share ideas, and shape the future of Yonge + St. Clair.

Here’s what you’ll gain along the way:

• Boost your resume – Show you’ve contributed to meaningful, city-backed projects.

• Flex untapped skills – Bring in what you know from your industry and apply it in new ways.

• Collaborate with leaders – Connect with other forward-thinking professionals in the area.

• Shape Yonge + St. Clair – See your input reflected in real neighbourhood improvements.

It’s a small time investment with a big impact – for your business, your career, your network, or getting involved in special interests that aren’t your 9 to 5.

Qualifications + Eligibility

+ Ownership or Tenancy: Be an owner, staff member, or tenant of a commercial or industrial property with a registered business address within the BIA.
+ Age: Be at least 18 years old.

Interested? Register your interest by emailing [email protected] or filling out the quick form here.

About the Role

What is a BIA?

The Yonge + St. Clair BIA represents 450+ businesses and 90+ property owners in the Yonge + St. Clair community in Midtown Toronto, Ontario. Formed in 2018, the BIA through the City of Toronto’s Economic Development plan, it strengthens the economic health and livability of the neighbourhood through strategic investments in the public realm, exciting cultural programming, brand awareness, and advocacy on behalf of members.

How does a BIA work?

A BIA is a partnership between the City, property owners, and businesses. At Yonge + St. Clair, a full-time staff team – hired by the Board of Directors and approved by City Council – delivers projects that reflect the community’s priorities. From murals and public art to streetscape improvements and neighbourhood events, the BIA’s work directly shapes how people experience this urban corner of Toronto.

 

What would I do as a volunteer committee member?

You’ll join other local business representatives for a 1-hour meeting each month to share ideas, raise concerns, and contribute your expertise. Meetings are structured in advance so discussions stay focused on real opportunities and challenges.

There are two committees you may be part of:

+ Streetscape Committee – Guides infrastructure and public realm improvements, including the rollout of the Streetscape Master Plan (approved by City Council) to create a more unified and welcoming neighbourhood.

+ Marketing + Events Committee – Shapes placemaking, branding, and programming. From events and campaigns to creative activations, this committee helps position Yonge + St. Clair as an emerging urban hub in Toronto.

Why should I get involved?
Because your input makes a visible difference. Volunteering gives you the chance to:

+ Influence how public funds are invested in your neighbourhood.

+ Build your professional experience by contributing to city-backed initiatives.

+ Connect with other business leaders and creative thinkers shaping Midtown.

+ See your ideas come to life in public art, events, and streetscape projects.

Have more questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out to [email protected]. Or register your interest by filling out the quick form here.