Building Strong Relationships with Your BID or Merchant Association

2/23/2026, 7:34:00 AM

If you run a storefront or community organization in New York City, your local Business Improvement District (BID) or merchant association can be a powerful ally.

They often coordinate marketing campaigns, events, and resources that can amplify your work — especially when it comes to digital visibility.

Programs like Volta NYC frequently partner with BIDs to connect student teams with clusters of small businesses. Here’s how you can get the most out of those relationships.

1. Know what your BID offers

Start by understanding your BID or merchant association’s services:

  • Social media promotion for member businesses
  • Group advertising or seasonal campaigns
  • Technical assistance or office hours
  • Connections to grant programs and city resources

Attend at least one meeting or reach out directly to staff to learn what’s available.

2. Keep your information up to date

Make it easy for your BID to promote you by ensuring they have:

  • Your current logo and photos
  • Accurate hours, contact info, and website URL
  • A short description of what you offer

This also helps when student teams, working through BID partnerships, build collective neighborhood directories or maps.

3. Collaborate on content

Look for ways to co-create stories:

  • Feature your business or program in BID newsletters and social channels
  • Participate in "day in the life" or behind-the-scenes campaigns
  • Share impact stories that highlight how your work supports the neighborhood

Offer your own photos, quotes, and ideas to make it easy for them.

4. Advocate for digital support

If your BID doesn’t yet offer digital help, you can advocate for:

  • Workshops on websites, social media, and online listings
  • Partnerships with student programs like Volta NYC for hands-on support
  • Shared resources (templates, guides, recommended vendors)

A small push from several businesses can often unlock new initiatives.

Strong relationships with your BID or merchant association can extend your reach and connect you to resources you might not find on your own.

If you’re in a neighborhood where Volta NYC or similar programs are active, ask your BID how student teams are currently supporting local businesses — and how you might participate in future cohorts.