How to Help Consumers Find and Support Your Canadian Business

 
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Across Canada, people are increasingly choosing to support homegrown businesses, fueling the growth of the "Buy Canadian" movement. A Global News report highlights how Canadian shoppers are prioritizing local products, strengthening the economy, and supporting small businesses. This shift has been driven by U.S. tariffs, but more importantly, it reflects a long-overdue moment of national pride—Canadians coming together to strengthen the economy by supporting local businesses. 

Buying Canadian isn't just about commerce; it’s about supporting your neighbours, uplifting local businesses, and fostering growth at home. For Canadian entrepreneurs, this movement presents a valuable opportunity. As more shoppers actively seek out local businesses, entrepreneurs have the chance to gain visibility, build stronger networks, and contribute to a self-sustaining economy. The impact of this movement extends beyond individual businesses. It strengthens entire communities and helps Canada’s entrepreneurial ecosystem continue to grow.

Why Supporting Canadian Women Entrepreneurs Matters

While the "Buy Canadian" movement benefits all Canadian entrepreneurs, it is especially critical for women entrepreneurs. Despite their innovation and resilience, women entrepreneurs often encounter significant barriers, including limited access to funding and essential resources. 

Systemic challenges—such as unconscious bias, lack of mentorship, and restricted access to professional networks—can further hinder their ability to scale and sustain their ventures. By supporting women-led businesses, consumers and investors play a vital role in breaking down these barriers and creating a more equitable playing field. 

Even so, women entrepreneurs are rising above these challenges and driving positive change. Studies show that women-led businesses are more likely to integrate social and environmental responsibility into their operations, creating solutions that benefit both consumers and communities. 

Supporting women entrepreneurs isn’t just about bolstering the Canadian economy, it’s about fostering equity and driving meaningful progress. When consumers prioritize supporting women-led businesses, they contribute to a more inclusive economy that champions progress. 

How Canadian Women Entrepreneurs Can Increase Visibility

To tap into the growing "Buy Canadian" movement, Canadian women entrepreneurs can take strategic steps to make it easier for consumers to find and support them by:

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1. Leveraging Online Directories

Listing your business on platforms like Made in CA can help consumers discover your products. These directories act as a hub for consumers who are actively seeking to support local businesses. 

While Made in CA currently only spotlights product-based businesses that manufacture their products in Canada, there are a few other directories you may want to consider: 

  • Buy Beaver: For identifying Canadian products as you shop

2. Ensuring Proper Product Labeling

The Competition Bureau of Canada sets regulations for product labeling, including distinctions between "Made in Canada" and "Product of Canada." Understanding and following these guidelines can enhance transparency, visibility, and consumer trust. 

According to the Competition Bureau of Canada:

  • Product of Canada: At least 98% of the product's total direct costs of production or manufacturing must be incurred in Canada.

  • Made in Canada: At least 51% of the total direct costs of production or manufacturing must be Canadian, and the final transformation of the product must occur in Canada.

 

3. Highlighting Canadian Identity Online

Entrepreneurs should consider showcasing their Canadian roots on their websites and social media channels to attract customers who prioritize shopping Canadian. Simple copy updates can go a long way in letting your audience know what you’re all about! 

4. Engaging in Community Networks

Participating in industry events, business incubators, and community-driven initiatives can help you build meaningful connections and increase brand awareness. Our newsletter will keep you updated on the latest events and opportunities from The Forum and our community partners. 

5. Utilizing Storytelling in Marketing and Social Medi

Sharing your journey, challenges, and impact can create an emotional connection with your consumers. When people understand the story behind your brand, they are more likely to support it and become loyal customers. Consider sharing what happens “behind the scenes” and opening up to your community.

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How We Can All Support Canadian Businesses

Supporting Canadian entrepreneurs goes beyond purchasing their products—it’s about creating a culture of community and advocacy. Here are a few ways everyone can contribute:

 

1. Share Canadian Businesses and Directories

Word-of-mouth is one of the most powerful marketing tools! Recommending local businesses to friends and family amplifies their reach and strengthens their customer base. 

 

2. Leave Positive Reviews

A great review can significantly boost credibility and attract new customers. Taking a few moments to write about a great experience can make a big difference for small businesses. 

 

3. Engage on Social Media

Following, sharing, and engaging with Canadian businesses online increases their visibility and connects them with broader audiences. Tag businesses in posts, use relevant hashtags like #BuyCanadian and #SupportLocal, and encourage others to support the entrepreneurs and businesses you love.

 

4. Make Conscious Purchasing Choices

Whether shopping online or in-person, prioritizing Canadian businesses helps sustain local economies. Checking product labels, reading about business backgrounds, and choosing Canadian-made goods whenever possible ensures that money stays within the local economy. Don’t forget to shop local when you can! 

 

5. Attend Local Markets and Events

Farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and pop-up events often feature small businesses looking for community support. By attending these events, consumers can directly contribute to the success of Canadian entrepreneurs.

 

6. Join The Forum’s Weekly Virtual Connects

Another impactful way to support fellow women entrepreneurs is by joining The Forum’s Weekly Virtual Connects. Every Wednesday at 11 AM PT / 2 PM ET, you can join this  free and welcoming space to ask questions, share experiences, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you're looking for advice, networking opportunities, or simply a supportive community, these sessions are a great way to connect.

Why join?

  • Exchange resources and ideas that help businesses grow

  • Build a strong network in an inclusive, welcoming space

  • Find potential collaboration opportunities with like-minded entrepreneurs

  • Gain insights on industry trends and best practices from experts and peers

  • Get guidance and support from fellow entrepreneurs who understand your journey

Let’s Foster Canadian Growth Together

By making conscious choices to support Canadian businesses, especially those led by women, we contribute to a more inclusive and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. 

Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to increase visibility or a consumer eager to make a difference, there are many ways to get involved. By shopping local, amplifying Canadian voices, and fostering a supportive business landscape, we can ensure that Canada remains a vibrant hub for innovation, resilience, and entrepreneurial success.

 
 
 
The Forum