When we talk about supporting local, the conversation often revolves around money—spending within our communities to boost the economy. But the true impact of buying local stretches far beyond transactions. It’s about community, connection, creativity, and hope.
Local businesses don’t just sell products or services; they reflect the heart of a neighbourhood, responding directly to its needs. They offer personalized service, unique goods, and a sense of identity that strengthens the fabric of a city. More than 90% of Canadian businesses are small—just take a walk through your community, and you’ll see them everywhere. These businesses aren’t just storefronts; they belong to your neighbours, the people shaping the places we call home.
Every time we choose to support a small business, we help sustain jobs, preserve entrepreneurship, and keep the spirit of innovation alive. It’s more than an exchange of money; it’s an investment in someone’s dream, in the relationships that hold a community together.
The Bigger Picture of Supporting Local
Buying local isn’t just about what we purchase—it’s about how we engage with our community. Small business owners have a pulse on the struggles around them, often recognizing challenges before city officials do. They are the first to step up, fostering solutions and strengthening neighbourhoods with compassion and commitment.
If we truly want to support local, we need to go beyond shopping habits. Ask small businesses about the challenges they face. Reach out to organizations working with vulnerable populations. Learn about the task forces addressing local issues. Supporting local means being an active participant in your community—caring for the people you share streets, parks, and public spaces with, not just those within your immediate circle.
Strengthening Communities, Not Just Economies
A strong local economy isn’t just about businesses thriving—it’s about people thriving. But how effective is the “buy local” message when many are struggling to meet basic needs? When neighbours are cutting costs, lowering the heat in winter, or facing housing insecurity, supporting local must mean more than just spending money.
It’s about collective resilience. It’s about ensuring that the places we live remain vibrant and sustainable, no matter the economic ups and downs. It’s about using what we have—our skills, networks, and influence—to create stronger connections and opportunities for everyone.
We are more than just cogs in an economy. Expanding our view of what it means to support local makes our communities stronger, more adaptable, and better equipped to weather challenges.
At its core, entrepreneurship is about recognizing problems and believing in solutions. Supporting local is the same—it’s a commitment to the belief that together, we can build something better.
A Community of Care This Valentine's Day
On February 14th we will be joining our friends at 519Pursuit to remind our friends facing homelessness and extreme poverty how much they matter. There will be students making handmade Valentine's Day cards and local businesses donating coffee and treats. The gift of a flower would really be special! We are looking for 45 single wrapped roses. Do you know a local flower shop you think would align with this? Or maybe your group of friends or teammates would want to come through and show some love? Send us an email or connect with us on social media.
Learn more about the important work 519Pursuit does here.
As small business owners in Consumer Packaged Goods we know the challenges of continuing to be seen and chosen amongst the large brands that have been around for decades. Our marketing budgets are small, but our support for one another is limitless. We reached out to some of our favourite local brands to put together a “London Brands We Love” Giveaway. Check us out on IG for details! Giveaway runs February 10th-14th.
Our Giveaway Partners: The Baker's Project, Bella's Kitchen, Booch Kombucha, Carmela's Teff Crackers, Forest City Microgreens, Granny P's Sea Moss, Grindstone Blends, HealthFerno, Konsuma, New Leaf Food Truck, Peacasa, Zentein