Every year the Ottawa Board of Trade and our economic development partners send a message reminding our community of the importance of buying local, especially this time of year when our small businesses are counting on a positive seasonal rush.
You already know how our small local businesses have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic counter measures and continue to face challenges unlike many others. And you have already experienced how every aspect of our community is connected. Buying local strengthens our local economy and drives revenue for reinvesting in our city and creating a more prosperous future for all.
The power of your consumer dollar is not to be underestimated. You have a choice. Make this season more meaningful by supporting the businesses that support us. Our local businesses provide jobs, boost local causes and act as the heart and soul of our community, our culture and our economy. They offer unique products and a high level of service. Many of them offer online shopping and delivery. Or you can elevate your experience by shopping in person. Restaurants and personal service providers offer great experiences leading up to the holidays and gift certificates are a wonderful way to celebrate the season.
This is the perfect time to increase your local impact by seeking out businesses owned by equity deserving entrepreneurs. Moving the needle on our personal equity, diversity and inclusion meter will reap benefits for us and our city for years to come. Women owned businesses, those owned by Indigenous entrepreneurs, visible minorities, people with disabilities and those from our LGBTQIA2S+ community, drive a thriving, inclusive, future thinking economy.
More than ever, we each have a hand to play in the future of our city, neighbourhoods and local families. Let’s work together to level up our collective certainty and joy with meaningful choices including the gift of charitable giving. The last two and a half years has been particularly devastating to those most vulnerable and the third sector continues to be challenged holding up our community. Check out this GIVING GUIDE for ideas on how to make a difference.
ACTION CHECKLIST
There is only one way to ensure local businesses continue to drive a thriving regional economy that propels all of us to a high quality of life and a successful future. ACT NOW!
- BUY LOCAL – Check www.ottawabot.ca and buylocalottawa.ca to learn more on how to get involved, review local business directories and social posts with gift ideas. Find printable posters and ZOOM backgrounds to download.
- PROMOTE LOCAL – You know so many great local businesses, so let others know. Tell stories on social about a unique gift you bought, excellent service you received, or an awesome conversation you enjoyed. Use #buylocalottawa and let’s get trending!
- SHARE THE MESSAGE – You have at least 1,500 people in your sphere of influence; friends, family, customers, suppliers, employees. Remind each of them of the importance of their consumer dollar and let’s create a wave of local prosperity this season.
Yours in prosperity,
Sueling Ching
President & CEO | Ottawa Board of Trade
About the Ottawa Board of Trade
The Ottawa Board of Trade is an independent, non-profit, non-partisan member driven business association. We are the voice of business and key advocate for economic growth in our Nation’s Capital. Our mission is to cultivate a thriving world class business community in Ottawa by influencing economic development through leadership and partnerships. We advocate key priorities at all three levels of government and support business growth through relevant benefits and programs. Join us today!
