The small- and medium-sized businesses that are the backbone of the economy have shown tremendous resilience throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. To further help downtown businesses generate activity this holiday season, the Government of Canada is supporting a campaign to encourage the public to shop local.
Federal investment supports downtown businesses
René Arseneault, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (ACOA and Official Languages), today announced a non-repayable contribution of $44,403 to support Downtown Centre-Ville New Brunswick, together with Business Fredericton North and business improvement associations across the province, with a campaign to promote local businesses.
The initiative involves television commercials in both official languages on CTV, CBC and Radio Canada, as well as an online and social media campaign.
Downtown businesses in many communities across the country have been particularly hard hit by the restrictions and challenges of COVID-19. Today's announcement demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to Canadian businesses - helping them survive and remain sustainable.
Quotes
"We believe that supporting small businesses and workers, especially during the holidays, is critical to economies in communities across the country. We want workers and business owners to know that we are here for them because we care deeply about their jobs, their business and their community. We will get through this, together.
- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA
"This campaign will provide the momentum downtown businesses need to boost their sales. I'm proud that our government is providing critical support to local downtown businesses in communities across our province, at a time when they need it the most."
- René Arseneault, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (ACOA and Official Languages)
"Downtown Centre-Ville New Brunswick represents 26 Business Improvement Areas, as well as the tens of thousands of property owners, business owners, and employees who have all experienced many challenges due to the global pandemic. We are thankful for the partnership with the Government of Canada and ACOA on this "Support Local" marketing campaign during the critical holiday shopping season, it is welcomed by all Downtowns, Main Streets and Uptowns in our Province. This campaign is a reminder that by supporting local businesses we are supporting the heart and souls of our communities and helping to ensure their survival."
- Trina MacDonald, General Manager, Business Fredericton North Inc. and Past President, Downtown Centre-Ville New Brunswick
Quick facts
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Canadians are strongly encouraged to consider shopping online to support local businesses of all kinds. The shift to online shopping is increasing, with 42% of Canadians indicating that they will shop online this year for the holidays.
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Downtown Centre-Ville New Brunswick is supported by business industry associations across the province, including Business Fredericton North.
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Federal support for the project is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency's Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation.
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In addition to its regular suite of programs, ACOA delivers COVID-19 support for Atlantic Canadian businesses and business support organizations through the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) and Canadian Seafood Stabilization Fund (CSSF).
