Business Improvement Area (BIA) Membership & Benefits
*Certain businesses located in the BIA are not automatic members; see voluntary membership for more information.
BIA Membership Benefits
It is Downtown SLO's main goal to ensure that your membership provides you with the knowledge and resources you need to help your business grow and thrive downtown. Listed below are just a few of the ways we make membership worthwhile, plus a map of the entire Business Improvement Area. Think of this area and the businesses within it as your downtown network of support!
- A place in an organization that speaks with one voice for all of downtown
- A safe space to voice questions, comments, and concerns
- Access to our Downtown Ambassadors five days a week
- Connections to city and county resources
- A chance to amplify the downtown experience, including your business
- Opportunities to be involved in Downtown SLO-hosted events
- Discounted fees and automatic approval for a booth at the Farmers’ Market
- Free bus access for you and your employees
- Access to networking events with other downtown businesses, our Board of Directors, and City of SLO employees
Marketing & Promotional Benefits
Business Directory
Downtown SLO members are automatically given a free listing in our business directory! Listings are search-engine optimized and include links to your business’ website, social media, and contact information. Small businesses are additionally featured on the small business page.
Downtown SLO also runs Google Ads to draw clicks to the business directory — and draw customers to YOUR business!
Events Calendar
Publicize your event on our events calendar! Submit your event for approval.
Instagram & Facebook
Frequent social media campaigns feature various downtown businesses! Tag us and #DowntownSLO in your posts and stories for a chance to be featured — and keep an eye out for opportunities to sign up to be featured in upcoming programs and campaigns.
Deliver-E Weekly Newsletter
Our weekly public-facing newsletter features upcoming events, new members, and other important downtown happenings! Sign up to receive the Deliver-E in your inbox, or reach out to inquire about features.
Networking & Connection
Business Education Series
Meetings informing members, business owners, and downtown stakeholders regarding relevant downtown issues and topics are held as needed. Learn more about upcoming sessions here.
Member Newsletters
Members and stakeholders of Downtown SLO receive monthly newsletters with important information regarding our programs, city updates, road closures, and other relevant information. Sign up here!
Meetings
Special task forces and groups meet regularly to discuss public activations, events, safety, and more. Reach out to find out about how you can get involved!
State of Downtown
The Downtown SLO State of Downtown event is generally held in October to highlight achievements over the fiscal year, provide updates, and plan for the future.
