Who Are We?

The Uptown Rutland Business Association ("URBA") is responsible for administering government funding each year to promote the business and assist the members of URBA.  Any business within the Rutland Business Improvement Area ("BIA") area is a member once they have had a business licence for 6 months. To see if you fall within the Rutland BIA and are therefore a member of URBA, please see the map located at the bottom of the URBA page. The BIA area is legislated by bylaw and is assessed property taxes which URBA overseas.

Members are entitled to participate in URBA events which are ongoing year round. Members are encouraged to attend meetings to find out more about what is happening in Rutland.  Newsletters and websites keep members up to date and informed.

URBA is a member of the Provincial Business Improvement Areas of BC.

Who Runs URBA?

Annually, the members (you) elect a Board of Directors who will work hard with the staff to carry out the obligations and duties of URBA and to continue to chart the course for the improved viability of Rutland businesses. The Annual General Meeting is in March, and the Board of Director meetings are generally the third Wednesday of each month. All members are welcome; contact the Executive Director for details.

Benefits of Being a URBA Member:

URBA coordinates major events each year, and hosts many events, which attract people to come to the area to shop and do business.

  • URBA lobbies on behalf of its members with groups like the City of Kelowna for projects such as infrastructure improvements, public washrooms, signage, and more.
  • URBA develops partnerships within the community with groups like the Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Corporation, Arts and Culture groups, and more.
  • You will receive E-newsletters once month that keep you up to date on issues, opportunities and events taking place in the area.
  • You can get involved with the URBA by joining one of the committees or being elected as a Director on the URBA Board.
  • You can access the Board of Directors and the Executive Director for assistance with information, contacts and other resources to help build your business.