Gabriola Island Chamber of Commerce
News from and about the Business Community of Gabriola
Latest Chamber News
Gabriola Chamber Encourages Local Spending
In an era dominated by global markets and online shopping, the significance of supporting local businesses and services cannot be overstated. As we turn towards the winter holiday season’s festivities, I remind residents to harness the power of their wallets to invest in their own community. The impact of buying local extends far beyond individual purchases, with a ripple effect that positively influences the economic, social, and environmental fabric of the Island.
Substantial local buying power in British Columbia has shown the potential for residents to make a meaningful impact. Research from LOCO BC indicates that for every $100 spent at a local business, nearly $63 stays within the community. This contrasts starkly with only $14 staying local when shopping non-local. By redirecting spending habits towards local establishments, residents can effectively contribute to the financial health of small businesses and services on Gabriola.
The benefits of buying local extend beyond economic considerations. Here are some key community benefits to consider:
- Community Resilience: Local businesses are often deeply embedded in the community, providing stability and resilience during economic fluctuations.
- Job Stability: Supporting local enterprises translates to jobs remaining within the community, fostering employment opportunities for residents.
- Unique Character: Local businesses contribute to the distinctive character of Gabriola, offering unique products and services that set them apart from generic products.
- Environmental Impact: Buying local can reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and packaging, promoting environmentally sustainable practices. Many opportunities to gift donations to non-profits, or buy local cultural experiences provide low-impact spending.
- Community Engagement: Local businesses give back. When we build prosperous local businesses, they are more likely to engage with the community through events, sponsorships, and collaborations, fostering a sense of connection among residents.
As we navigate the complexities of gift-giving, the simple act of choosing local businesses over multinational corporations can have a profound impact. When we embrace the philosophy of buying local, they can contribute to vibrant, resilient, and thriving Gabriola.
– Erin Udal, Executive Director of the Gabriola Island Chamber of Commerce
Past Chamber News
What’s Growing on Gabe: Late Summer and Early Fall on the Farm
August has brought abundant harvest on Gabriola that continues into the fall! Between backyard growers, hobby farmers, and small-scale agriculture, you can find fresh, diverse, and sustainable goods on Gabriola.
Here’s a list of some of our favourites that highlights a range of locally-grown and hand-made goods, including flowers, cheese, goat milk soaps, baked goods, veggies, fruit, cider, specialty prepared foods, and even compost!
Welcome Erin Udal, New Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce!
“I look forward to serving the islands’ small business and tourism opportunities alongside our environmental integrity and community values”
Rural Island Economic Forum Recap
The Gabriola Chamber was proud to take part in the Rural Islands Economic Partnership (RIEP) Forum hosted in April at the Haven on Gabriola Island. Several of our Board Members, Chamber Members, contractors, and local community attended along with engaged citizens and...
Meet Brock Poesiat, New Board Director
Brock Poesiat works remotely as a software developer and began volunteering with the Chamber of Commerce as a Board Director in February, 2023.
2022 Business of the Year: Nature Spirit Earth Market
The Gabriola Island Chamber of Commerce’s Business of the Year Award recognizes a local enterprise that goes above and beyond for Gabriola’s community and economy. This past year, we received a volume of nominations for these local businesses: Bruno’s Kitchen &...
Meet Catherine Hallam, New Board Director
Board Member
Catherine opened Free Spirit Gallery Shop & Studio in 2021, fulfilling a lifelong dream to create a space where both emerging and established artists could be celebrated. She joined the Chamber of Commerce as a board member in order to represent other local retail businesses on the island. As the Isle of the Arts it is great to be able to encourage visitors and residents to shop local and support local arts.
Gabriola Chamber Awarded $100,000 from Rural Economic Diversification & Infrastructure Program
With thanks to the Gabriola Sounder for printing this announcement in the April 19, 2023 edition. The Gabriola Island Chamber of Commerce is pleased, excited and honoured to have been awarded $100,000 for our Island MBA program from B.C.'s newest economic...
Introducing the Gabriola Thriver Guide and Workbook
The Gabriola Island Chamber of Commerce is proud to have participated in the Gabriola:Together We Triumph project supported by the Gabriola Arts Council and funded by The Government of Canada through the Department of Canadian Heritage. Through this program, we’ve...
AGM & Business Awards
You're Invited! AGM & Business Awards Join us online Thursday, February 9th at 7pm for our AGM and Business Awards! This free event is for any and all community members and is a great chance to learn more about the Chamber and our role on Gabriola. Please...
Gabriola Disposal: New Business Award 2021
The New Business Award celebrates courage, dedication, and innovation in the local business community. Gabriola Disposal, our 2021 New Business Award winner, is a welcome addition to the services offered on Gabriola. Despite the challenges of Covid and as new parents,...