As a proud supporter of local businesses, LOCO BC is rolling out new initiatives to strengthen our community’s economy and help independent businesses thrive. From their annual independent business survey to exclusive workshops and customizable marketing materials, there are plenty of ways for you to get involved.
1. Independent Business Survey – Have Your Say!
Local businesses are the heart of British Columbia’s economy, and now is the time to showcase their impact. LOCO BC is conducting its annual Independent Business Survey to measure how “Buy Local” campaigns benefit our communities.
By participating, businesses have the chance to:
✅ Help prove the growing importance of local-first initiatives
✅ Enter to win one of five $50 cash incentives
✅ Receive a complimentary LOCO BC membership
Your input will shape future initiatives to support local businesses, so don’t miss this opportunity to have your voice heard.
2. Upcoming Workshops for Local Businesses
LOCO BC has organized a series of workshops to help businesses and organizations leverage the current economic climate, connect with local-first advocates, and implement new strategies for growth.
First Tuesday Business Meetup
📅 April 1 | 10:00-11:00 am
Join local business owners for a casual discussion about the challenges of the tariff war, emerging opportunities, and how we can support each other in navigating these changes.
Enhancing Local Impact & Digital Marketing for Businesses
📅 March 11 | 4:30 – 6:00 pm
📅 March 13 | 9:30 – 11:00 am (Stong’s Market case study included on March 13)
With global instability affecting Canadian businesses, this session will explore:
- Research on the benefits of local businesses
- Practical tools for measuring and improving your local impact
- Digital marketing & AI solutions tailored for small businesses
- Strategies from the #BCBuyLocal campaign, featuring Stong’s Market (March 13)
The “Buy Canadian” Movement & Local Purchasing Strategies
📅 April 9 | 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
More businesses and governments are shifting their purchasing strategies to prioritize Canadian suppliers. This workshop, led by LOCO BC and Buy Social Canada, will help businesses align their purchasing with “Buy Canadian” strategies while staying compliant with trade agreements.
📍 All events are free to attend – Register now!
(For a more detailed breakdown of these workshops, check out our previous blog post.)
3. Free Marketing Resources for Local Businesses
LOCO BC has also developed customizable marketing materials to help businesses proudly showcase their Canadian roots. These resources are available for print, co-branding, and social media use:
✅ Local Owned, Grown & Made Stickers (Print-ready & DIY versions)
✅ Instagram Post Templates
✅ “Proudly Canadian” Logo Frame
📌 Access the folder & download materials here
Want to personalize these assets with your own logo? Use the Canva links below to customize your designs:
By participating in these initiatives, you can elevate your business, strengthen the local economy, and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs. Let’s work together to build a thriving, resilient business community in B.C.!
📢 Help us spread the word by sharing this post with fellow business owners and local supporters.
