Canada’s Office of Consumer Affairs has tips on the best ways to support small businesses in your community, which includes getting to know the small businesses in your area by following them on social media, in flyers and community newsletters, and reading their reviews. The Office of Consumer Affairs website also suggests if there aren’t many options near you to buy local products, consider buying from elsewhere in Canada instead, and points out that many online marketplaces will let you filter sellers to those who are Canadian, or who make or manufacture their products in the country.

The OCA says supporting local businesses is important because it increases jobs and supports the success of your community while reducing your carbon footprint because small businesses often source from local manufacturers.