Buy local and support Canadian businesses

One of the most effective ways to show support for Canada is to keep your spending money in Canada. There has been a surge in Canadians choosing to buy local, recognizing that supporting homegrown businesses strengthens the economy. Whether it’s shopping at a local boutique, eating at a Canadian-owned restaurant or choosing domestically made products, these small decisions have a significant impact.

If you're looking to make more conscious purchasing decisions for your every day shopping needs, there are some big name retailers that are domestic and provide solid Canadian alternatives to American stores. Every dollar spent on Canadian goods and services helps maintain jobs, fosters innovation and sustains Canadian businesses during these uncertain times.

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Need pet food? There are Canadian options for that

Supporting Canada isn’t just about the products you buy for yourself — it extends to your furry friends, too. The Canadian pet food industry is thriving, and choosing native brands ensures you’re supporting ethical sourcing and high-quality ingredients.

We put together a guide on Canadian pet food options that dives into the benefits of buying local brands, from better nutritional standards to reduced environmental impact.

To be considered for this list, pet foods must not only be made in Canada, but also be Canadian owned.

Cheers to Canadian alcohol alternatives

Hosting a gathering or just enjoy a tipple every now and again? You don't have look to our neighbour to fill your wine glass or high ball.

Many Canadians are choosing to move away from US spirits in favour of indigenous options, recognizing the incredible quality of Canadian-made wines, beers and spirits. There are plenty of excellent alternatives that keep your money in Canada while also supporting local distilleries and brewers.

Whether you prefer craft beer from a small-town brewery or whiskey from a renowned Canadian distillery, there’s no shortage of top-tier options that don’t require crossing the border. Making the switch to Canadian-made alcohol is a simple but effective way to support the national economy while enjoying high-quality beverages.

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Scan your way Canadian alternatives

If you’re looking for an easy way to find Canadian-made products, technology has made it more accessible than ever. The Buy Canadian app allows users to easily identify and shop for locally made goods, ensuring that more of their spending goes directly into the Canadian economy.

It may not be as bold as wearing a patriotic message on live television, but it does make it easier to buy Canadian made products and show your pride with your pocketbook.

Rethink retirement real estate

For decades, Canadian retirees, AKA snowbirds, have flocked to Florida for warm winters. Current political tensions and economic shifts have led some to reconsider their ties to the US and an increasing number of Canadian retirees are selling their properties in Florida and reinvesting in Canada.

It may seem like a drop in the bucket, with the number of retirees who can or will rethink where they want to live in retirement, but Canadians are, in increasing numbers, doing just that. These people are choosing to do their part to support the Canadian economy and taking leave of a country that is making it financially and politically difficult for their fellow Canadians back home.

A national movement of solidarity

Mike Myers is a Canadian icon and he used his name and his platform to send a clear, simple and powerful statement on Saturday Night Live.

His public message is a reminder that patriotism isn’t just about words — it’s about action. Supporting Canadian businesses, choosing local products and rethinking spending habits are all ways to make a tangible difference, even without being a beloved public figure.

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Leslie Kennedy Senior Content Editor

Leslie Kennedy served as an editor at Thomson Reuters and for Star Media Group, followed by a number of years as a writer and editor and content manager in marketing communications, before returning to her editorial roots. She is a graduate of Humber College’s post-graduate journalism program and has been a professional writer and editor ever since.

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