#ShopLocal: Supporting Small Business this Holiday Season

In December 2019, the ThriveNorth program successfully completed its five-year mandate. Managed by Futurpreneur Canada, the program helped young entrepreneurs in Northern B.C. launch and grow their businesses by connecting them with resources, financing and mentorship.

Each year it feels as though the holidays come around faster than the last, and we find ourselves facing the same dilemma time and time again… where to do the holiday shopping!

Lucky for us, our options are coming closer to home, with the number of small businesses launching in communities across Canada on the rise. But we aren’t the only beneficiaries of small businesses – your local community is.

Every dollar spent at a small business in your community continues to boost and stimulate your local economy. Booming local businesses also paves the way for growth and development in other areas, from employment opportunities to reduced environmental impact. Shopping local matters!

To help you #ShopLocal and support small businesses in your community this year, check out this list of local businesses in Northern B.C.

Northwest B.C.

	Halo Athletic Apparel 3301 Thomas St, Terrace, BC Halo Apparel makes custom fitted active wear that is built to handle what you want to throw at life. Custom measurements ensure that everything stays in place. No two women are the same so why should you have to settle for generic sizing?
	Sole Shoes 101-1165 Main Street, Smithers, BC, V0J 2N0 SOLE Shoes is a boutique shoe store located in the beautiful little mountain town of Smithers, BC that offers fashionable, comfortable and affordable quality footwear for women and children. They also carry a selection of beautiful handbags and accessories! They have a diverse selection, with a goal of having something for everybody!
	Minna Lifestyle Smithers, BC – online only A Scandinavian inspired online shop for babies and their mamas.
	Ansens Consignments 954 3rd Ave W, Prince Rupert, BC Ansens Consignment offers a wide selection of attractive, upscale women’s clothing at affordable prices. Their quality inventory is changing constantly, with new trendy merchandise arriving regularly. Don’t miss out on good taste and affordable style!
	Basement Dwellers 3458 10th St., Houston, BC Basement Dwellers is a Hobby Store in Houston BC, Canada which focuses on tabletop wargaming and RPGs.
	Wild Roots Flowers & Gifts 101 1 Avenue, Burns Lake, BC A flower store in the heart of BC with unique gift ware from local artisans.

Northeast B.C.

In Her Footsteps Authentic Dene Designs

Fort Nelson, BC

In Her Footsteps offers traditional and modern beadwork which is both customizable and unique. A variety of handmade custom crafts also include birchbark baskets, moose antler jewellery, paintings, clothing & accessories. Contact Crystal Behn-Dettieh, Owner/Artist at (250) 500-1848

Beard’s Brewing Co

10408 Alaska Rd N, Fort St John, BC

The perfect place to visit with friends, have fun and try fresh local beer made in house. Where everyone belongs. Come down and try 8 of their 15 beers always available on tap at Fort St John’s 1st craft brewery!