First BIDs adopt new Industry Standards recognising excellence in the sector
A group of seven BIDs have become the first to receive kite mark accreditation recognising their standards of governance and operations.
The BID Foundation’s Industry Standards were launched in December 2020 and include 11 tests for BIDs, developed alongside industry bodies and governments. The Standards range from how easy the BID is to contact and to access information from, to important measures that ensure personal interests are public and transparent.
Members of the BID Foundation have begun working towards achieving the new Standards and this group of seven are the first to have passed a rigorous assessment process, completed independently by the Institute of Place Management (IPM).
Following submission of evidence from BIDs applying for the new accreditation, an audit is completed to ensure a BID’s online presence and information on its structures and processes meet the Industry Standards. The process normally involves feedback and suggested revisions in order to become compliant with the standards. With further audits undertaken on additional evidence provided by each BID.
Cat Mitton, IPM Executive Director said:
“We have been encouraged by the amount of interest and enthusiasm from our members to become compliant with our new Industry Standards, and it is great that we already have a number of early adopters. This is an important step for the industry and we hope by the end of the year a large proportion of UK BIDs will be compliant with the 11 standards. ”
The kitemark is awarded for a 12-month period, with compliance reviewed after this time to ensure continuing transparency and quality in the sector. The 11 standards will be kept under review by The BID Foundation to ensure they stay relevant as the sector advances.
Industry Standards accreditation is available to members of The BID Foundation which encourages all BIDs to review and consider the standards that are publically available.
Find out about how you can become compliant with the Industry Standards.
About the author
Formed in 2006, the Institute of Place Management is the international professional body that supports people committed to developing, managing and making places better.