Support Local

Support Local

The City of Calgary is supporting the business community by making connections, sharing resources and tools, and highlighting positive stories to inspire the community and spark further innovations that can benefit those in need.​​​​​​​

We started the free Support Local program to help Calgarians find local businesses. If you’re a Calgary business, show your roots with pride. If you’re a proud Calgarian, spread the word about your favourite local businesses with #SupportLocalYYC.

Bowness and Montgomery are open for business!

With the current Water Main Break the Bowness and Montgomery businesses are continuing to operate during this difficult time. Consider visiting and supporting them. There are some restrictions in place for businesses as well that are worth reviewing if you are a business operating during this state of local emergency. 

Download the poster for your store window or use on social media post. 

Construction updates and resources
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5 reasons to ​​​​​#SupportLocalYYC

You get unique goods and services

#1

From everything you need to fill the most eclectic kitchen pantry, to local fashion and multicultural surprises, finding one-of-a-kind treasures is a gift in itself when you shop local.

You support the local economy

#2

Small businesses make up a large amount of the retail sector in Calgary. Local businesses generate about four times more economic activity than larger corporations. And support for local businesses means support for local jobs.

It helps protect the environment

#3

Less time and resources shipping products from nearby means fewer emissions are associated with every purchase. Purchasing local foods will also support area farmers.

Your money stays in Calgary

#4

A dollar will go further when spent at a local level and it also keeps on giving. Over half of every $100 earned by local businesses ends up recirculating in the Calgary economy. It’s a win-win for our neighbourhood businesses when you support local.

You support your neighbourhood’s identity

#5

The places we think of as great neighbourhoods can really thank local businesses for putting them on the map. Leave a positive review for the places you love, follow and tag them on social media, and spread the word about your favourite local businesses with #SupportLocalYYC

Did you know Calgary has over a dozen Business Improvement Areas?

Another great resource for local shoppers is the directory of Business Improvement Areas (BIAs).

BIAs encourage neighbourhood revitalization, business diversification and, overall, the building of a great city.

Shoppers can explore options for local businesses and find new places to support and try out.

Currently, there are some 15 BIAs, each with a local neighbourhood flavour, with services and products that might be a pleasant surprise.

Each BIA has a website, with shopping directories, special events and other features. Try calgary.ca/bia.

For businesses:

#SupportLocalYYC Marketing Toolkit

Calgarians love supporting local businesses. These tools will hel​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​p them find you.

Print posters for your store window

Download PDF (8.5 x 11)

Download PDF (8.5 x 11)

Download digital banners for social media

Download #SupportLocalYYC images to use on social media posts:​

Support local campaign banner

Local business marketing tips​

Support Local is a celebration of local businesses and services in Calgary. Join Calgary businesses by using #SupportLocalYYC in your social posts and other marketing. It’s free to participate.

  • Use #SupportLocalYYC marketing tools to identify your business as locally owned, and label Calgary made or grown products.
  • Claim your business listing and location on Google My Business to increase your visibility online.
  • Encourage your customers to use the #SupportLocalYYC hashtag to promote their favourite Calgary businesses and services.
  • Ensure you’re active on social media. New photos and updates help keep your followers informed and interested in your business.
  • Retweet, re-post and share everything satisfied customers say about your business on social media. Each customer post acts as a little testimonial that may encourage others to give your business a try.
  • Respond to social media reviews online. This shows that you value your customers’ feedback, gives you an opportunity to highlight the positives and shows you care.
Man in a bookshop holding books

Program participants

We do regular research with businesses to better understand the outlook and viewpoint of the business community. If you are a business owner, leader or manager, join our online business research panel, Business Perspectives.

Join the Business Perspectives Panel
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