By Danielle McRorie-Smith, National Programme Manager, Scotland’s Improvement Districts
The BID ballot—it’s the defining moment in any Business Improvement District’s journey. It’s when months, sometimes years, of engagement, planning, and partnership culminate in a simple question to businesses: do you believe in the future we’ve shaped together?
It’s a moment full of anticipation, and for those of us who live and breathe community-led regeneration, it can feel deeply personal.
The Process: A Democratic Milestone
At its core, the BID ballot is democracy in action. Businesses, large and small, each have an equal voice in shaping their place’s future. But it’s important to remember that ballots are won not only on a majority of those voting yes—they also require a majority by rateable value. So the outcome hinges on more than just numbers; it reflects the balance of small independents and larger, often multinational, occupiers.
In today’s climate—where small businesses are under enormous pressure from rising costs and limited margins—the stakes feel higher than ever. The ask must be crystal clear, and the offer must feel both immediate and impactful.
The Highs: When a BID Wins
When a BID secures a successful ballot, there’s an incredible sense of collective achievement. It validates your vision, your team’s dedication, and the belief that a place can be better, more vibrant, and more resilient when everyone pulls together.
It also unlocks five more years of opportunity. A new chapter of delivery, investment, and strategic impact.
The Lows: When a BID Falls Short
But when a BID doesn’t succeed, the consequences go beyond statistics. It’s a deeply human moment of disappointment for those who’ve worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Services stop. Projects pause. Trust takes a knock.
It forces tough questions—and sometimes, that’s where the most important learning happens.
Renewal Is Not Repetition
My strongest piece of advice: do not approach your renewal ballot as a carbon copy of your last one.
The world has shifted. Your place has shifted. Ask yourself:
- Does your town or city look the same as it did five years ago?
- Is your BID zone still fit for purpose—or should it be adapted, expanded, or reduced?
- Have you analysed the sector split in your area? Are you dominated by independents, or are you negotiating with large national brands?
- Have you actively reached out to understand the national stance of those brands toward BIDs?
Practical Tips for Ballot Success
When you’re preparing for ballot, it’s not just about having a good plan—it’s about executing with absolute precision and clarity. Here are the key strategies I recommend:
1. Make That Envelope Unmissable
Use a very bright envelope—yellow, orange, pink, anything bold—for your ballot papers. Nationals, in particular, may have a stack of post to wade through. When you’re in the final chase phase, you want to be able to say, “Look for the bright yellow envelope on your desk.” Your job, your area, and your businesses depend on that vote being returned.
2. Robust Database & Traffic Light System
If I’ve worked with your BID team during ballot prep, you’ll have heard me preach the value of a strong database. Know every single voter’s intention—and track it. Use a traffic light system:
- Green = voting yes
- Amber = undecided
- Red = not voting or voting no
Update your master file constantly. This allows you to pivot your strategy quickly, re-engage where needed, and focus your energy where it matters most.
3. Engage, Engage, Engage
Some BIDs in Scotland manage over 1,000 businesses. That’s a challenge—but not an excuse.
- Are you really engaging with every one of them?
- Are you speaking with the actual decision maker (not just the store manager)?
- Are you wearing out your soles with leather on the pavements?
- Are you using LinkedIn to reach those harder-to-access contacts?
- Are you picking up the phone?
4. Board Accountability
Ballot success is not just the BID team’s responsibility. Your board needs to be actively involved. Are they using their networks? Are they making the case on your behalf? Are they championing the cause publicly and privately?
5. Threshold Scenarios: Rethink Your Minimum Levy
A key, often overlooked, element of ballot planning is reviewing your minimum rateable value threshold. Ask yourself: is the threshold you’ve set still right for your area?
In many towns, there’s a large number of small businesses who stand to benefit significantly from an improved trading environment—but under your current levy rules, they’re not included. Should they have the opportunity to participate voluntarily rather than mandatorily? Could adjusting the threshold lead to greater fairness, stronger community buy-in, or a more focused delivery plan?
This isn’t just a financial question—it’s a strategic one. Your threshold defines who’s at the table. Make sure that aligns with the BID goals.
Moving Forward: Reflection and Renewal
Whether you win or lose, ballot season is your opportunity to learn. To listen. To lead.
At Scotland’s Improvement Districts, we are here to support BIDs through every stage of that journey. Success should be celebrated. Setbacks should be shared and used to grow.
Because this work is bigger than paperwork and planning. It’s about people, places, and purpose. And when we get it right—it changes everything.
