Benvenuti

Benvenuti To The Via Italia BIA

The Via Italia BIA is known for its Italian heritage and cultural influence, which is reflected in the many restaurants, cafes, and specialty food stores, and personal and professional services that line the street. It is a vibrant and bustling area that attracts both locals and tourists.

The BIA was established in 1986 with the goal of promoting and enhancing the economic development and overall vitality of the Erie Street business community. It is governed by a board of directors made up of local business owners who work together to plan and implement initiatives aimed at improving the area.

Some of the initiatives undertaken by the Via Italia BIA can be seen and enjoyed through include streetscape improvements, special events and festivals, and support for local businesses. The BIA also provides a forum for local business owners to network and collaborate on projects and initiatives that benefit the entire community.

The 2023 – 2026 Volunteer Via Italia Board of Directors:

Pietro DiPonio, Interim President/Chair

Franca Conciatori, Treasurer

Michael Vonella Jr, Secretary

Teresa Silvestri, Past President/Past Chair

Tony Conciatori, Director

Graham Marko, Director

Adriano Ciotoli, Director

Peter Vitti, Director

Councillor Mark McKenzie

Message from the Via Italia Board of Directors

Dear Visitors and Residents,

As the Board of Directors of the Via Italia Business Improvement Area (BIA), it is our great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all who have come to experience the unique charm and culture of our neighbourhood.

Via Italia is a vibrant and dynamic district located in the heart of Windsor, Ontario. Our community is steeped in Italian heritage and boasts a rich history of culture, food, and entertainment that draws people from far and wide.

Our streets are lined with a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes, and personal and professional services, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a delicious meal, a refreshing drink, a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, or a personal care day or need professional advice, Via Italia has it all.

Our community is more than just a destination, it’s a way of life. We pride ourselves on our strong sense of community and the warm welcome we extend to all who come to visit us. Our businesses are owned and operated by hardworking and passionate locals who are dedicated to making our neighbourhood a great place to live, work, and play.

As you explore Via Italia, we invite you to take in all that our community has to offer. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavours of our neighbourhood and experience the warmth and hospitality that sets us apart. If you find you would like some guidance of finding the right business or ideas on how to spend your time in Via Italia, just email info@viaitalia.com and we’d love to help to make your experience the best it can be.

On behalf of the Via Italia BIA, welcome to our community. We hope you enjoy your visit and come back to see us again soon. 🇮🇹


Resources

Via Italia BIA Governance

Via Italia BIA Board Meetings

  • Via Italia BIA board meetings are once a month, normally on Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.
  • Meetings take place in the BIA office, located at 836 Erie Street East.
  • For information related to Via Italia BIA agendas and meeting minutes for past or upcoming meetings, please see below.

All are welcome to attend, and an RSVP at least 24 hours in advance is appreciated so accommodations can be made for member attendance.

Requests for delegations on matters on an agenda can be made to info@viaitalia.com and must be made no later than 5 business days prior to the scheduled meeting.

Correspondence to the President and Directors of the Board regarding agenda items can be made by submitting them by email to info@viaitalia.com

*Please note that you are required to provide your name, address and contact information as part of your correspondence, and this will be displayed publicly and included in agendas and meeting minutes.

PDF of Board Meeting Dates:

Via Italia Board Meeting Dates 2023

Via Italia Board Meeting Dates 2024

Agendas

May 2023 Agenda

June 2023 Agenda

July 2023 Agenda

August 2023 Agenda

September 2023 Agenda

October 2023 Agenda

Notice of AGM 2023 and Agenda

November 2023 Agenda

AGM Agenda with Previous AGM Minutes

January 2024 Agenda

March 2024 Agenda

April 2024 Agenda

Meeting Minutes

May 2023 Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

 June 2023 Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

July 2023 Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

August 2023 Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

September 2023 Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

October 2023 Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

November 2023 Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

November 2023 AGM Meeting Minutes

January 2024 Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

March 2024 Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

City of Windsor Resources

To find out the latest on available services for small businesses in the community, visit the City of Windsor website pages.

For all other inquiries can find more information by visiting the City of Windsor main page.

Government Resources

Available funding opportunities from the Provincial and Federal Government

Find out what steps to take to open a business and what funding is currently available from the Government of Ontario.

The federal government has services and programs in place to help businesses. Make sure you’re taking advantage of the assistance provided.