Julie Lawlor is Executive Director at the WestShore Chamber
We continue to live in challenging times. For many small businesses, these times are very challenging indeed. Some have been able to adjust their operations and are doing well. But others are struggling.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) make up the backbone of the Canadian economy. Their importance as employers and taxpayers cannot be overstated. SMEs are also very significant in what we enjoy and experience in our community – places where we shop and eat, learn and exercise, gather and try new things.
I encourage you to think about businesses in your community that you would really miss if they cease to exist. Got your list? Ok – here’s what you can do to help:
On Saturday July 25th, be part of The Big Spend (thebigspend.com) “This is a one-day, buy local event designed to help revive Canada’s economy.” Taking part is easy – on that day buy an intentional purchase from the small business of your choice. You can then report the spend through the website, and also share on social media if you choose.
If you’re a wage earner, you may already be making regular intentional purchases at small businesses, and if so – thank you! And if you are one of many Canadians for whom money is tight right now, there is another way you can show your favourite businesses some love, and it costs nothing except your time.
By the time you read this, voting for the Best of the WestShore Awards will be open, and running until Labour Day.
Go to westshore.bc.ca and vote for your favourite businesses, non-profits and community places in Colwood, the Highlands, Langford, Metchosin and View Royal. In 2019, there were over 40,000 votes across 44 categories.
Together, let’s smash that record for 2020.
Julie Lawlor is the Executive Director at the WestShore Chamber of Commerce.
