Economic Impact Assessment Practicum – Downtown Event Analysis

We are seeking a motivated and analytically minded student to join the team at the Abbotsford Downtown Business Association (ADBA). The ADBA works to foster a thriving and inclusive downtown community through business support, advocacy, promotion, and community events that bring people into the downtown core.

This practicum offers an opportunity to contribute to an economic impact assessment of ADBA signature events, including Berry Fest and Winter Jubilee. These events attract thousands of visitors each year and play an important role in activating downtown Abbotsford.

The student will assist with collecting and analyzing data to better understand the economic impact of these events on downtown businesses, including visitor activity, spending patterns, and business engagement. The findings will contribute to a report that helps demonstrate the return on investment (ROI) of community events for the ADBA Board of Directors and the City of Abbotsford, supporting future planning and funding decisions. Students interested in economic consulting, policy analysis, tourism economics, or community economic development will find this experience particularly valuable. The association regularly collaborates with partners including Tourism Abbotsford, the City of Abbotsford, the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce, Community Futures South Fraser, and the University of the Fraser Valley.

The ideal student enjoys working with data, asking thoughtful questions, and translating research findings into insights that help organizations and communities make informed decisions. This position requires a student with:

·       Strong analytical and research skills

·       Interest in economic impact analysis, community development, or public policy

·       Ability to collect and interpret quantitative and qualitative data

·       Strong written communication skills for report writing and presenting findings

·       Experience with surveys, data collection, or basic economic analysis is an asset

Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team