10 Unexpected Ways to Support Local Businesses and Strengthen Your Community

Supporting local businesses and products isn’t just about making a purchase—it’s about strengthening our communities, ensuring our neighbors thrive, and creating opportunities for future generations. When we choose local, we’re helping a small business owner afford to send their child to hockey camp, supporting local jobs, and keeping money circulating right here in Nova Scotia. Every dollar spent locally has a ripple effect, fueling other businesses, creating employment, and maintaining the unique character of our communities.

A great way to identify local products in Nova Scotia is by looking for the Nova Scotia Loyal logo. This mark guarantees that the product is made or grown right here, allowing consumers to make informed decisions that directly support the province’s economy. While farmers’ markets are a fantastic way to shop local, there are many other ways to support our neighbors and local businesses that might not be so obvious. Here are ten ways to go beyond the market and make a real impact:

1. Dine at Locally Owned Restaurants

Skip the big chains and opt for independent restaurants and cafés that source their ingredients locally. This supports both the restaurant owners and the local farmers and fishers supplying their kitchens.

2. Buy Direct from Local Producers Online

Many small businesses now sell directly to consumers through their websites or social media. Whether it’s local honey, coffee, or handmade goods, shopping online can be an easy way to support businesses without leaving home.

3. Choose Local When Grocery Shopping

Supermarkets often stock local products—whether it’s Nova Scotia-grown produce, seafood, dairy, or bakery items. Look for the Nova Scotia Loyal logo or check the labels to ensure your purchases support local farmers and artisans.

4. Use Local Service Providers

Instead of hiring a big-name corporation, consider working with a local plumber, electrician, or landscaper. These businesses reinvest in the community and often provide more personalized service.

5. Purchase Gift Cards from Local Businesses

Buying gift cards from independent shops, restaurants, and service providers is a great way to show support, especially during slow seasons or unexpected economic downturns.

6. Support Local Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries

Nova Scotia has a thriving craft beverage scene. Choosing local beer, wine, cider, or spirits over national brands keeps our province’s beverage industry strong.

7. Attend Local Events and Festivals

Many communities host craft fairs, seafood festivals, and cultural events featuring local artisans, musicians, and food producers. Attending these events and purchasing from vendors helps keep the local economy vibrant.

8. Donate to Local Causes

Consider supporting community initiatives, whether it’s sponsoring a local sports team, donating to a small charity, or contributing to a community fundraiser. These contributions have a direct impact on our neighbors.

9. Shop at Local Hardware and Home Goods Stores

Instead of heading to big-box retailers, check out independently owned hardware stores, garden centers, and home goods shops for supplies, furniture, and home improvement needs.

10. Share and Promote Local Businesses

Word of mouth is powerful! Leave positive reviews online, share your favorite local products on social media, and recommend local businesses to friends and family. Your support can make a significant difference in their success.

Supporting local doesn’t require grand gestures—small, intentional choices can have a lasting impact. By keeping an eye out for the Nova Scotia Loyal logo and making a conscious effort to choose local, we can ensure that our communities remain strong, resilient, and thriving for years to come.