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CFIB launches directory to support small biz

Sept. 26, 2013, Toronto — A new online directory exclusively for independent businesses will make it easier for small and medium businesses to connect with potential customers across Canada.

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) and Interac Association have launched Shop Small Biz, a made-in-Canada directory to support small businesses from coast to coast. The directory will connect thousands of Canadian business owner with consumers and other businesses looking for local deals.

CFIB and Interac Association representatives were joined by the Hon. Eric Hoskins, Ontario Minister of Economic Development, Trade and Employment, on Sept. 25 to launch the new directory and test out its features with a number of small business owners at Trattoria Mercatto, a CFIB member business located in Toronto’s Eaton Centre.

"Public opinion polls show that Canadians have enormous respect for small business owners and their contributions to society," said Dan Kelly, CFIB president. "However, on a weekend visit to the local big box mall or trip to shop in the U.S., we may inadvertently pass by hundreds of locally-owned and operated small firms. ShopSmallBiz.ca is designed to help give Canadians exposure to some of the fantastic products, services and deals offered by small businesses."

ShopSmallBiz.ca is a free, uniquely Canadian directory that allows consumers to connect with local small businesses to find great deals. For small business owners, the directory functions as an easy-to-use marketing tool that allows them to promote themselves to Canadian consumers and each other. 

Kelly said that the directory was born out of demand to continue the CFIB's Canada's Small Business Saturday, a pilot event that had over 4,500 small firms post an online, one-day deal in late October 2012.

“We had so many firms ask us to continue this initiative, we’re launching ShopSmallBiz.ca as a permanent directory. Importantly, CFIB will be launching several special events to promote the directory, starting with Small Business Day on Oct. 25 – the end of Canada’s Small Business Week."

“Every day across our great country, Canadian small business owners are working hard, creating jobs and finding new and better ways to do things,” said Hoskins. “They find time to give back to their community and now, with this new online tool, Canadians can show their appreciation by shopping small biz.”