Blog

How to support local businesses right now

Calgarians are coming together in a real way right now (while we are apart), and the need for supporting local businesses is now more important than ever before. Even though shopping at our favourite local shops, restaurants and markets looks a little different for the time being, there are still meaningful ways to support local and the City of Calgary is calling on us all to do so.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has hit businesses in Calgary hard, and we know many were already challenged from a tough economy,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi. “Our City taskforces are uniting with our partner organizations and community members to support citizens and businesses through the pandemic. We’re all in this together, and we will get through this together.” [City of Calgary]

While our city is recognizing social distancing measures, it’s still really important that we find ways to support the local businesses that keep this city alive. It’s important to our local economy, but it also keeps us connected at a time when we really need to come together.

Here are some ways you can support local businesses right now:

  • Shop online and opt for delivery (if available) or curbside pick-up
  • Purchase a gift card online that you can use in future
  • Order delivery or takeout from your favourite local restaurant (or a place you haven’t tried yet)
  • Leave a review for a local business on social media platforms or their website
  • Share the business with your friends by telling people why you love them and encourage others to follow them and engage on social media

Under #SupportLocalYYC, The City of Calgary together with our partners Calgary Economic Development, the Calgary Chamber, Tourism Calgary and Calgary Arts Development, are supporting the business community by creating connections, sharing resources and tools, and highlighting positive stories to inspire the community and spark further innovations that can benefit those in need. [City of Calgary]

However you are choosing to support local business during this time, be sure to spread the word on social media using #SupportLocalYYC.