It’s Small Business Week in Canada — the national celebration of entrepreneurs and the contributions of their small businesses to our country’s economy.
Across British Columbia, 98 percent of businesses are small businesses, employing more than a million people.
And here in Summerland, small businesses are the heart and soul of our community and the engine of our local economy.
Some of the Chamber’s jobs are to promote our member businesses, invite investment in Summerland, connect with other organizations who can provide expertise and funding to our local businesses and partner with the District of Summerland on economic development initiatives.
This year, we’ve done this through the creation of a comprehensive new investment and relocation guide, something our community sorely needed.
With financial support from the district, we’ve also created and launched a library of economic development videos. These are available to view on our YouTube channel which you can link to from our web site.
As well, we’ve held events to connect with sectors we don’t always hear from, most recently our trades businesses and a growing number of agricultural technology businesses.
But it’s important to remember that celebrating and supporting our small businesses is not just the chamber’s job. It involves all of us.
We have more than 700 licensed businesses in Summerland and they cover the gamut of every possible product and service.
Do you need something beautiful to wear? It’s here.
Every ingredient for your favourite recipe? They’re here.
Services for you and your family, your pet or your car. Here.
Every possible kind of health and alternative care provider? Check and check.
You can find them all here in Summerland and on the business directory of the chamber’s web site.
In fact, there’s very little that you need to leave town to buy.
And the cost of gas and travel time make it even more attractive to shop locally.
Don’t forget that the owners of these businesses are local parents, coaches, volunteers and your neighbours and they are contributing to the vibrancy and health of our community every single day.
Support them this week and every week and celebrate small business.
We always appreciate your feedback. Please contact me at manager@summerlandchamber.com or our Chamber President, Arlene Fenrich, at president@summerlandchamber.com.
Christine Petkau is the Manager of the Summerland Chamber of Commerce.
