Based on recommendations from business leaders to help small businesses directly impacted by public health restrictions to keep Manitobans safe from COVID-19, the province committed $1.5 million to the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce to help support business and chambers throughout Manitoba in developing and promoting their community businesses.
“The Chamber network is thrilled with the announcement of funding for local businesses throughout the province,” said Chuck Davidson, president and CEO, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. “These funds will have a direct and immediate impact by supporting a variety of community-focused, grassroots Shop Local campaigns and initiatives organized by many of the 69 local Chambers of Commerce across Manitoba.”
This is the first project rolled out from the initial supporting funds of up to $50 million announced Nov. 10 for business groups such as the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and Economic Development Winnipeg (EDW) to provide a detailed plan to government on long-term recovery funding to help Manitoba businesses adapt and thrive coming out of COVID-19.
Along with support for chambers to promote local businesses, which can be used on projects such as local shopping guides for the holiday season, the $1.5 million will also help the GoodLocal online shopping platform and delivery service in the capital region, which connects local makers and merchants with buyers at www.goodlocal.ca.
The locally developed web portal acts as a one-stop shop to have items delivered to customers’ doors. The funding will allow GoodLocal to support more vendors, makers and farmers while improving their customer interface to enhance sales.
Today’s announcement builds upon the province’s #ShopLocalMB campaign, a new digital campaign that encourages safe local shopping.
The new #ShopLocalMB campaign has enlisted a local design company to tell the stories of Manitoba businesses, entrepreneurs, makers and creators. The messages will reinforce reminders of how to shop safely, which includes using delivery, in-store pickup or drive-thru options whenever possible, and following public health fundamentals if in-person shopping is required.
Click here to read the full announcement.