Supporting Canadian businesses doesn't have to be complicated. Here are ten practical, everyday actions you can take to make a difference in your community.
Small Actions, Big Impact
You don't need to overhaul your entire lifestyle to support Canadian businesses. Small, consistent choices add up to make a tremendous difference for local economies across the country.
1. Start Your Morning Canadian
Choose Canadian coffee roasters like Kicking Horse Coffee or Balzac's. Pair it with bread from a local bakery. Your morning routine can support multiple Canadian businesses before you even leave the house.
2. Choose Canadian Transportation
Next time you need a ride, skip the foreign-owned app and call a local taxi service. Companies like Capital Taxi, Blue Line Taxi, and Ameys Taxi are Canadian-owned and operated, keeping your fare in the community.
3. Shop at Canadian Retailers
Before clicking "buy" on an international website, check if a Canadian retailer carries the same product. Canadian Tire, Roots, and MEC are just a few options that keep your dollars in Canada.
4. Bank Canadian
Choose a Canadian financial institution for your banking needs. The Big Five banks (RBC, TD, BMO, Scotiabank, CIBC) are all Canadian-owned, as are credit unions across the country.
5. Eat at Canadian-Owned Restaurants
Skip the international fast-food chains and try a locally-owned restaurant. Not only is the food usually better, but you're supporting a Canadian entrepreneur's dream.
6. Use Canadian Tech
From Shopify to Hootsuite to Wealthsimple, Canada has a thriving tech sector. Choose Canadian apps and services when possible.
7. Buy Canadian Groceries
Look for Canadian brands at the grocery store. Companies like Saputo, Maple Leaf Foods, and Loblaws are all Canadian-owned.
8. Choose Canadian Healthcare Products
From Jamieson vitamins to Aveeno (yes, it's Canadian!), many health and beauty products are made by Canadian companies.
9. Support Canadian Entertainment
Watch Canadian films, read Canadian authors, and listen to Canadian musicians. Our cultural industries need your support too.
10. Spread the Word
Perhaps the most powerful thing you can do is tell others about great Canadian businesses. Share on social media, leave reviews, and recommend Canadian alternatives to friends and family.
The Ripple Effect
Each of these actions creates a ripple effect through the Canadian economy. When you buy from a Canadian business, they buy from their Canadian suppliers, who pay their Canadian employees, who spend at other Canadian businesses. It's a virtuous cycle that strengthens our entire country.
Ready to find more Canadian businesses? Browse our complete directory today.