How to Support Small Businesses Now
Hey Nova Scotia, local businesses need our help! This third wave has been incredibly challenging for the small business community and it’s more important than ever to show them some love.
We’ve compiled a list of a few ways to Get Your Hands on Local and support the small businesses in our province. From following them on social media, to ordering delicious take out or stopping by to eat-in, and looking for fresh local products at the grocery store – every choice to support local makes a difference. And don’t forget to check out our Get Your Hands on Local online directory to source local food and drink in your community!
1. Show your love for them online
- Follow your favourite local businesses on social media and engage with them! Share, comment, and like their posts. Show them you’re supporting them.
- If they have a newsletter, subscribe to it.
- Leave them a glowing review on Google, or the relevant platform. Tell them (and the rest of the province) why you love them!
2. Look for local products at the grocery store
The shelves of your local grocery stores are full of Nova Scotia grown, harvested, and produced food and beverage. When purchasing local products, you’re not only purchasing fresh products from nearby but more of your money also stays in the province and circulates back through Nova Scotia’s economy. Look for Taste of Nova Scotia signage in your grocery store to identify products that are harvested, grown and produced right here in Nova Scotia. View our Guide to Get Your Hands on Local blog series for more information.
3. Shop at farmers markets & independent retailers
Farmers’ markets and independent retailers are a great way to support our local farmers, fishers, artisans, and producers! With many locations throughout the province, you won’t have to travel far!
Check out Meadowbrook Meat Market, Masstown Butcher, or the Pork Shop for locally produced meats, and specialty cuts. Check out Stirling Fruit Farms Ltd., Noggins Corner Farm Market, Masstown Market, Scotian Gold’s Market Store, or one of the many Farmers’ Markets of Nova Scotia for fresh produce, local culinary products, and more. For seafood, visit Afishionado Fishmongers, Clearwater Seafoods, Fisherman’s Market International, or the Masstown Market Lighthouse. For a small shop all about dairy visit Fox Hill Cheese House in Port Williams or Halifax, Masstown Creamery, or the retail shop at Knoydart Cheese House.
4. Order take out or dine in at local restaurants
As restaurants are beginning to reopen, many are offering lots of flexible options to enjoy their delicious eats. Whether purchasing take out, relaxing on a patio, or dining in, you’re not only supporting those local restaurants but also the producers and suppliers they purchase from. Make sure to follow Taste of Nova Scotia on Instagram and Facebook for updates to restaurant hours, offerings, and more.
5. Enjoy local beverages
Summer is almost here! That means it’s time to stock up on your favourite cold beverages. Nova Scotia has a vibrant craft beverage industry including wine, beer, cider, spirits, and mead. Pick up or order online directly from the beverage producer or look for local at Liquid Assets, Harvest Wines & Spirits, Westside Beer Wine Spirits, Rockhead Wine & Beer Market, Bishop’s Cellar, and the NSLC.
6. Gift certificates
Looking for a gift idea for a friend? Purchasing gift certificates from local businesses is not only a great gift idea, but helps small businesses. You can also purchase a gift certificate for yourself to cover the cost of your future culinary experiences.
7. Book (or purchase a gift certificate) for a future culinary tour
Now that we’re able to travel the province again it’s time to experience all the culinary adventures Nova Scotia has to offer. To ensure your spot is booked, get your dates in with tour companies now! Alternatively, if you don’t have a date in mind, purchase a gift certificate to use for a tour at a later date. Check out Wine and Beer Tours Nova Scotia, Uncork Nova Scotia, Grape Escapes, the Magic Winery Bus, or Ambassatours Gray Line for inspiration and details on specific tours.