On The Horizon - July 30, 2025
- Downtown Duncan
- Jul 30
- 5 min read
What is on the Horizon for the Downtown Duncan Business Improvement Area? Read below to get caught up on the day-to-day, upcoming events, and news from Members.
In this issue:
Duncan Days 2025 — Downtown Business Impact Survey
Help Shape the Future of Duncan Days — We Want Your Feedback
As you know, Duncan Days 2025 included several changes to the event format, footprint, and programming. Now, we’re asking for your feedback to help us evaluate those changes and guide our planning for next year.
As you know, Duncan Days 2025 included several changes to the event format, footprint, and programming. Now, we’re asking for your feedback to help us evaluate those changes and guide our planning for next year.
We’ve created the Duncan Days 2025 — Downtown Business Impact Survey to better understand how the event impacted your business — whether you're on the street level or upstairs, retail or service, directly involved or not. Your voice matters.
This survey is open to all DDBIA members — and with nearly 400 businesses in our downtown, the more responses we receive, the more informed and responsive our decisions for Duncan Days 2026 will be.
We are committed to listening to member feedback and adapting the event to better reflect your needs and priorities. This is your opportunity to influence the future of Duncan Days.
*Deadline to respond: Friday August 1st, 2025
Thank you in advance for taking a few minutes to share your thoughts. We truly appreciate your input.
Important Update: DDBIA Safety & Security Patrol Program Launching August 1st
Here is important clarification regarding the upcoming Safety & Security Patrol Program, launching August 1st, 2025, and to address some misinformation that has recently circulated.
This program, developed by the DDBIA in partnership with Footprints Security, is designed to help protect your businesses during overnight hours (10 PM to 6 AM) through targeted, consistent security patrols—an average of 8 checks per business per night.
To clarify some key details:
There is no single flat fee for participation. The minimum rate is $100/month, and it increases based on the specific needs of each business. Factors such as storefront size, number of doors and windows, and laneway exposure are considered to ensure fair pricing and adequate coverage.
Discounted rates are available until August 1st as an incentive for businesses taking early, proactive steps to secure their premises and support a healthy and safe downtown. Rates may increase after the launch date for new participants.
To maintain patrol frequency and quality, costs will not fall below $100 per business. As more businesses join, we will scale up patrol resources or subdivide patrol zones to maintain coverage and response levels.
While the DDBIA is actively promoting and supporting this program, Footprints Security will handle all contract administration and payment processing. This is due to our limited internal administrative capacity.
We’re committed to working collaboratively with Footprints to ensure this program remains effective and beneficial for all members. If you are considering joining, we encourage you to enroll before August 1st to take advantage of reduced pricing and help us build a safer, more secure community together.
If you have any questions or would like assistance in signing up, please reach out directly to Thea Hitchcock at hitchcock@downtownduncan.ca
Thank you for your attention, your partnership, and your commitment to community safety.
Ready to Grow Beyond Vancouver Island?
The Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) is a hands-on, intensive workshop series designed to help local businesses break into international markets. Over five in-person sessions in Duncan (starting this October), you'll get expert guidance, personalized coaching, and a fully tailored export plan to take your business global—with confidence.
Whether you're looking to expand into the U.S., Europe, or beyond, TAP can help you navigate trade logistics, financing, and international marketing strategy.
💡 Spots are limited and applications are now open.
If your business is export-ready or export-curious, this program could be your launchpad.
Swing Into Action for a Great Cause!
Mark your calendar for the Rotary Club of Duncan’s Annual Charity Golf Tournament on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the scenic Cowichan Golf Club.
This 9-hole, shotgun-start tournament promises a fun and festive day, complete with:
Steak BBQ dinner & social
Silent auction & 50/50 draws
Contests, prizes & great company!
All proceeds support the Rotary Club of Duncan’s impactful local and international projects. Whether you’re teeing off, sponsoring, or just showing your support — your involvement helps make real change happen.
Two Summer Events = Two Big Opportunities to Attract New Customers!
Downtown businesses, mark your calendars! Two major community sporting events are happening just outside the core in early August—and they’re bringing visitors, athletes, and spectators who may be looking to shop, eat, or explore while they’re in town.
🔹 Pickleball Tournament – Saturday, August 2, 9:00 a.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Cowichan Sportsplex🔹 MS Bike – Cowichan Charity Ride – Saturday, August 9, based at Queen Margaret’s School
While the routes don’t run directly through Downtown, both events are expected to draw people from across the region who will be nearby and likely to venture into the core before or after.
Consider ways to connect with this new foot traffic:
Promote a weekend special or featured product and tag the Sportsplex or MS Bike Ride online
Create a “Welcome Riders!” or “Welcome Pickleball Players!” sandwich board or sign
Offer a small discount to participants who show a registration bib or badge
Share a social post cheering on the event and inviting visitors downtown after the action
We’ll continue to keep you informed about upcoming events like these so you can use them in your marketing. And if you want help brainstorming ways to tie into the community buzz, just reach out—we’re here to support your ideas!
Hosting your own event? Let us know! We’re happy to share it on our Downtown Duncan events page and help spread the word.
Support BC Children’s Hospital with a Sweet Treat!
Miracle Treat Day returns to Duncan Dairy Queen on Thursday, August 14, 2025—and 100% of proceeds from every Blizzard® Treat and coupon sold will go directly to BC Children’s Hospital.
Last year, Duncan DQ raised over $18,000—making them the top fundraising DQ in the province. This year, they’re aiming even higher with a $21,000 goal, and they’re asking local businesses and community members to help them get there.
How to get involved:
Pre-order Blizzards or coupons for your team or workplace (pickup available August 10–16).
Pay by August 14 to ensure your purchase counts toward the donation total.
👉 Order here.📩 Questions? Contact manager@duncandq.ca or call 250-709-4133 / 250-709-2667.
Let’s help them make miracles happen—one Blizzard at a time!
Upcoming Events
Duncan Farmers’ Market Night Markets - June 19, August 21, September 18
Cowichan Public Art Gallery's Art in the Alley - June 28 - September 13
Twilight Treasures Sip and Shop - August 14, 5 pm - 8 pm
Rotary Club 1st Annual Golf Tournament - September 13
We encourage all members to list their upcoming events on our website at downtownduncan.ca/ddbia-events to help promote your activities and drive more foot traffic to your business. It’s quick, easy, and free to submit!
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