20 Ways to Support Local Businesses

1. Write a positive online review

This is a good time to finally get around to reviewing your favourite local business on Facebook, Google, Trip Advisor, etc. Good reviews can give businesses a big credibility boost and are an easy, free way to show your favourite small businesses that you support them.

2. Pre-pay for future appointments

If you have the means to do so, offer to pre-pay for future appointments with your regular service providers. While social distancing prevents you from going to get your hair coloured, attending music lessons, and so on, pre-paying for your next appointment can be a big help to small businesses during this time.

3. Skip the refund and take a rain cheque!

If you paid in advance for an event, a class, or a service, consider taking credit for the future instead of asking for a refund. These businesses will appreciate not needing to issue so many refunds right now.

4. Show gratitude

Keep morale up by thanking grocery, pharmacy or healthcare workers and truck drivers (to name a few) to let them know that you appreciate their hard work. Thank a local business or a front line worker to show your gratitude.

5. Purchase a gift card to use later

When business in Niagara-on-the-Lake is operating normally again, you’ll be back to visit your favourite restaurants, shops, and other local businesses. Purchasing gift cards online or by phone for future use is a great way to help out now. Contact a local business and inquire about the options they have available.

6. Subscribe to a local business' e-newsletter

Receiving e-newsletters from local businesses is a great way to stay up-to-date on their offers, products, knowledge, and more.

7. Shop locally online

Local shops and vendors may have closed their (physical) doors, but many still run online shops. Look for them on social media or check the business's website for links to their online marketplace.

8. Order local food for delivery or takeout

Many restaurants are now offering takeout even as they close their dining rooms. Support these local eateries by getting your food or drinks to-go and enjoying it at home.

9. Reach out to a small business owner

Take a moment to reach out to a small business owner and check in to see what you can do to support them – let’s take care of each other.

10. Post your favourite local product

Take a photo of your favourite product to purchase locally and post it to your social media accounts.

11. Participate in a virtual class

People who work in training or professional development are finding creative ways to move their instruction online. Attend an online fitness class, paint night, or concert with a local business.

12. Outfit your new workspace

Working from home? Have supplies delivered to your doorstep – support a local business while making your new workspace more functional.

13. Shop over the phone

Many businesses are accepting orders and payment over the telephone, so pick up the phone and make an inquiry to your favourite local retailer, restaurant, and service providers! Some are even offering delivery or front door pick up.

14. Tag a friend in a post from your favourite local business

This will help local businesses to reach future customers and gain more exposure.

15. Plan a future outing

Create a list of places and businesses you'd like to visit in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Share your list online and make plans to go with friends when it is safe to do so!

16. Don't cancel

If you have the means to do so, keep paying your memberships and subscriptions even if they’ve been temporarily suspended. Our local businesses need us more than ever!

17. Commit to future work

While you may not be able to start that home renovation project right now, your contractor will appreciate you committing to future projects. Lake of Bays is home to many quality builders and experienced crews.

18. Share a post from your favourite local business

Help your favourite businesses reach a broader audience by liking and sharing their information on social media.

19. Add photos to a Google business listing

According to Google, businesses with photos receive 35% more clicks through to their websites than businesses that don't have photos. Share your experiences by adding your favourite photos of local businesses and products to help drive traffic to their websites.

20. Donate to local non-profits

Donate online or by telephone - they need us now more than ever.