December is a month that invites joy, generosity, and connection. As we gather with family, friends, and colleagues to mark the year’s end, it’s also an opportunity to think about the kind of city we want to build together. Every decision we make – including where we shop, dine, and celebrate – shapes the fabric of our community.
This holiday season, the Ottawa Board of Trade is encouraging everyone to put your heart into supporting local businesses. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, planning your office party, or picking up your favourite festive treats, choosing local is one of the most meaningful investments you can make in Ottawa’s future.
Local businesses are the backbone of our city – the entrepreneurs, creators, and service providers who give each neighbourhood its distinct energy and charm. They are our neighbours and community champions. They contribute to local charities, employ local talent, and keep our main streets vibrant and safe. And, for many of them, December is the most critical month of the year. Your choices can make a lasting difference for their future.
Every dollar counts – twice.
When you spend a dollar at a local independent business, it generates up to twice as much total economic activity compared to spending at a non-local business. That’s because those dollars recirculate through local wages, supply chains, and community investments. Simply put, buying local keeps wealth within our economy, fuels job growth, and strengthens Ottawa’s resilience.
From stocking stuffers to office celebrations, holiday spending adds up quickly. Imagine the impact if we each directed just a bit more of that spending toward Ottawa-based businesses. If every household shifted even 10% of their holiday shopping locally, we’d see millions of dollars stay in our region – supporting entrepreneurs, strengthening families, and creating new opportunities for everyone.
Celebrate with intention.
This year, make your holiday list a love letter to Ottawa’s main streets and neighbourhoods. Our business improvement areas (BIAs) – including Carp Road Corridor, Centretown, Downtown Rideau, Heart of Orléans, Downtown BIA, and the Ottawa Coalition of Business Improvement Areas – each showcase incredible local shops, cafés, and cultural spots that capture the spirit of our city.
Take time to explore their member directories and discover new favourites. Browse local markets, pick up gifts from artisans and makers, or plan a holiday outing that features dinner at an Ottawa restaurant followed by a local performance or festival event. Every experience you enjoy, and share supports a business that helps make Ottawa unique.
You can start your search with our Buy Local Ottawa resources, available at ottawabot.ca/resources/buy-local. It’s your guide to one-of-a-kind gifts, festive experiences, and exclusive local opportunities this season. And don’t forget to share your favourites online using #BuyLocalOttawa – because every post inspires someone else to do the same.
A season for members to shine.
The Ottawa Board of Trade is proud to highlight our OBOT Member Marketplace, a dedicated platform where members can share exclusive offers, holiday promotions, and collaborative opportunities. It’s the perfect place to find meaningful gifts, team rewards, or client appreciation options that keep your spending local while fostering a stronger sense of community.
From experience packages to business services that help you close the year on a high note; the OBOT Member Marketplace allows you to give back to your fellow members while finding true value for your business. Visit ottawabot.ca/membership/member-marketplace to explore featured deals and ideas for making your holiday season both productive and local.
If you’re planning a staff celebration, looking for a thoughtful corporate gift, or simply ready to try that member business you’ve had your eye on, now is the perfect time. Marketplace offers make it easy to align your year-end plans with your values – collaboration, community, and commitment to Ottawa.
Building a thriving city, together.
As we head into 2026, let’s remember that a strong city is built on shared prosperity and local pride. Every local purchase this holiday season contributes to the momentum of an economy that works for all of us. This campaign is not just about the holidays – it’s about building habits that strengthen our community year-round.
Our Buy Local movement is powered by incredible partners who share this vision: the City of Ottawa, Ottawa Tourism, Invest Ottawa, OCOBIA, the Regroupement des gens d’affaires (RGA), and all our member BIAs. Together, we’re uniting businesses, policymakers, and consumers in a common goal – to ensure Ottawa remains a city where innovation, collaboration, and quality of life flourish side by side.
So, as you wrap your gifts, plan your parties, and prepare for the year ahead, put your money where your heart is. When we buy local, we keep creativity alive, nurture entrepreneurship, and set the stage for a thriving economy that benefits us all.
Let’s give Ottawa the best gift of all – our support, our spirit, and our spending power.
Sueling Ching
President & CEO
Ottawa Board of Trade
