BC Marketplace gives small businesses much-needed market exposure
BRITISH COLUMBIA – The BC Marketplace is an online resource showcasing more than 1,500 BC-based businesses that helps boost small-business growth and encourages British Columbians to buy local.
“British Columbians understand the value of supporting local businesses, and the BC Marketplace is a great tool to help people shop local,” said Ravi Kahlon, BC’s Minister of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation. “It is also a great way for businesses to showcase their products and services. With the holiday season upon us, let’s recommit to shop local and offer support to people working in our communities.”
The BC Marketplace was launched in April 2020 by Small Business BC (SBBC) to give immediate support to small businesses during COVID-19 when consumer shopping trends shifted online. With a growing number of businesses joining the online community, the BC Marketplace has become a long-term solution for BC businesses. It allows them to create or enhance their online presence and reach more customers at no cost.
“We know that the COVID-19 pandemic has presented small businesses across Canada with unprecedented challenges and they have demonstrated incredible resiliency,” said Melanie Joly, federal Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, and Minister responsible for Western Economic Diversification Canada. “That is why the Government of Canada is committed to helping entrepreneurs by supporting projects such as the BC Marketplace. Shopping local is a great way to support our local economies, and this vital resource will help small businesses expand their e-commerce footprint and attract new customers beyond their backyards.”
The BC government and the Government of Canada, through Western Economic Diversification Canada, have each provided $169,000 to Small Business BC for the BC Marketplace. The funding was used to improve the website’s functionality, including enhanced profiles for small businesses and regional search capabilities for consumers.
“As a small business owner, it is wonderful to be included on the BC marketplace. It is a great resource that contributes to supporting and shopping locally this holiday season,” said Leigh Joseph, owner, Sḵwálwen Botanicals. “Having one website to visit with so many vibrant and diverse local businesses listed is a great way to learn more about the businesses in our communities.”
SBBC supports small business owners throughout BC to grow successful and sustainable businesses through expert advisors, educational services and easy-to-use free tools.
“The BC Marketplace gives small businesses much-needed market exposure while helping customers discover the range of products and services available locally. I encourage small business owners to register for the website,” said Tom Conway, CEO, SBBC. “The marketplace has been put in place to help drive sales for businesses and provide choice to consumers.”
