Happy October to you! This month is a special time for entrepreneurs and small business owners across Canada as it marks Small Business Month! It's a month to celebrate the hard work, innovation, and resilience of small businesses that form the foundation of our economy. Small businesses contribute significantly to job creation, purchasing power, economic growth, and the unique character of our communities. In this blog post, I will explore the importance of small businesses in Canada and offer suggestions on how individuals can support and celebrate them during this special month.

As a small business owner myself,I am always looking for ways to promote small, local business and reach new customers. There are so many ways to do this and I will share some of them with you today.

The Role of Small Businesses in Canada

Small businesses offer an mportant lifeline to the Canadian economy. Small and micro businesses make up over 98% of all businesses in the country and employ approximately 70% of the private sector workforce. Canada’s Ministry of Innovation, Science and Economic Development reports there were 437,891 small businesses operating in Ontario in 2022, which accounted for 97.7% of private sector employment in the province. Here are a few key reasons why small businesses are vital to the economy:

1. Job creation: Small businesses create employment opportunities, especially in local communities, creating economic stability and reducing unemployment rates.

2. Economic growth: These businesses contribute significantly to Canada's Gross Domestic Product, or GDP, which measures the total economic output of the country. Small businesses drive economic growth and innovation.

3. Community building: Small businesses help build strong, vibrant communities by providing essential goods and services, supporting local initiatives, and spending their resources locally, which helps other local and small businesses and houesholds. 

4. Innovation: Many small businesses are at the forefront of innovation, spurring change in various industries, and improving the quality of life for Canadians.

Ways to Support Small Business Owners

Below are a few practical ways you can support small business owners during Small Business Month and beyond:

1. Shop local: Whenever possible, choose to buy from local businesses. Whether it's your daily coffee, groceries, or gifts, purchasing from local stores keeps money in your community and helps small companies thrive. Farmers and pop-up markets are great places to find local businesses to support. For example, the Black Queens of Durham hosted an incredible pop-up market in June for local, Black-owned, female-led businesses in Ajax, Ontario and it was a huge success! Persons shopped for a range of products, ate delicious foods, and relaxed in a welcoming environment. 

2. Dine at local restaurants: Enjoy a meal at local restaurants and eateries. Many small restaurants offer unique and culturally diverse cuisines that you won't find at chain establishments. Summer and Winterlicious in Toronto  and the  ByBlacks Restaurant Week in November are great examples of initiatives that encourage Canadians to support local restaurants.

3. Leave positive reviews: Take a few moments to leave positive reviews on review websites or social media. Positive feedback can significantly impact a small business's reputation and attract new customers, which help the business remain profitable and thrive!

4. Share on social media: Spread the word about your favourite local businesses on social media platforms. Use hashtags like #ShopLocal or #SupportLocal to encourage others to do the same.

5. Attend local events: Participate in local events, markets, and fairs organized by small businesses. These events often showcase handmade products, art, and crafts that make for unique gifts.

6. Offer supportive feedback: Provide constructive feedback to business owners. They appreciate hearing from their customers and can use your insights to improve their products or services.

7. Purchase gift cards: Consider buying gift cards from local businesses, even if you don't have an immediate need for their products or services. You can use them later or give them as gifts to friends and family.

8. Collaborate and partner: If you are a business owner yourself, explore collaboration opportunities with local entrepreneurs. Partnering with complementary businesses can help both parties expand their customer base.

9. Volunteer your skills: Offer your expertise to help small businesses with marketing, website development, or other areas where you excel. Your support can make a significant difference.

10. Be patient and understanding: Small businesses often face challenges that larger corporations don't. Be patient if they occasionally run into hiccups and show understanding during busy times.

Conclusion

Small Business Month is an excellent time to recognize and appreciate the immense contributions that small business owners make to Canada's economy and communities. By supporting local businesses through your purchases, reviews, and volunteerism, you can help them thrive and continue to bring innovation and character to our neighbourhoods. Remember that your support goes a long way in helping these entrepreneurs pursue their dreams and make a lasting impact on the Canadian business landscape.

Michelle

CEO

michelle@mvdconsulting.ca