How you can help
On this page:
- Small choices. Big Impact.
- Shop Local
- Choose Canadian
- Share Local
- Explore Local
- Ready to Get Started?
Small Choices. Big Impact.
Supporting local businesses doesn't have to mean making big changes. Every day, there are simple ways you can support the people, businesses and organizations that help make Kitchener a vibrant and thriving community.
Whether you're grabbing your morning coffee, shopping for gifts, choosing a contractor, or looking for a place to eat, your choices can make a difference.
Support Kitchener retailers, restaurants, markets, makers and service providers whenever you can.
Every purchase helps local businesses grow, create jobs and reinvest in our community. From neighbourhood cafés and family-owned shops to local markets and innovative businesses, your support helps keep Kitchener thriving.
Ideas to get started:
- Buy gifts from local retailers
- Dine at locally owned restaurants
- Visit the Kitchener Market
- Hire local contractors and service providers
- Support local makers and artisans
When shopping, look for Canadian-made products whenever possible.
Choosing Canadian products helps support businesses, workers and supply chains closer to home while contributing to a strong and resilient economy.
Look for:
- Products made in Canada
- Locally sourced food and beverages
- Canadian retailers and suppliers
- Goods produced by local manufacturers and makers
One of the easiest ways to support a local business is to spread the word.
Tell friends and family about your favourite local businesses, leave positive reviews, and share local experiences on social media.
Small recommendations can have a big impact.
Ways to share:
- Post about your favourite local business
- Leave a Google or social media review
- Share photos of local products and experiences
- Use #SupportLocalKW
- Recommend local businesses to friends and colleagues
Discover new businesses, shops, restaurants and experiences throughout Kitchener and Waterloo Region.
From markets and main streets to local attractions and hidden gems, there's always something new to explore close to home.
Explore:
- Downtown Kitchener
- Neighbourhood business districts
- Local events and festivals
- Farmers' markets
- Local shops, restaurants and attractions
Every purchase, recommendation and visit helps strengthen our community.
Together, we can support local businesses, create opportunities and build a stronger Kitchener.
Support Local. Build Kitchener.
Land acknowledgement
The City of Kitchener is situated on the traditional territory of the Chonnonton, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee Peoples. We recognize our responsibility to act as stewards for the land and honour the original caretakers who came before us. Our community is enriched by the enduring knowledge and deep-rooted traditions of the diverse First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples who live in Kitchener today.