The Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) is proud to support the Shop Main Street Canada initiative, a nationwide movement led by the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association. This campaign encourages Canadians to adopt a local-first mindset and recognize the vital role small businesses play in economic growth and job creation.

Small businesses are the heart of our communities, employing 5.7 million Canadians and contributing significantly to our economy. When you shop local, 66 cents of every dollar stays in the provincial economy—compared to just 11 cents at big corporations and even less online. Supporting local businesses means investing in Canadian jobs, strengthening neighborhoods, and keeping our economy strong.

With over 400 businesses in Downtown Burlington, residents and visitors have a wealth of options when it comes to shopping, dining, and accessing professional services. Our downtown is a hub of creativity and entrepreneurship, where local merchants offer unique products, exceptional services, and a personal touch that sets them apart.

“As the largest employers across Canada, small businesses are integral to the distinct characters of the cities and towns in which they operate—Burlington is no exception. The call to Shop Local/Shop Main Street is not new, but it has taken on increased significance in light of economic challenges facing the nation.

We are inviting a wider audience of new customers to explore the wealth of businesses in our dense commercial district and be a part of the growing patriotism for Canadian goods and services that has always been at the heart of our Downtown.”

– Brian Dean, Executive Director
   Burlington Downtown Business Association 

Making small changes can have a big impact! Here’s how you can help:

Choose local when shopping for gifts, dining out, or using services.
Explore Burlington Downtown – there’s always something new to discover!
Spread the word using #ShopMainStreetCanada and encourage others to shop local.

Another easy way to support the movement is through our Burlington Downtown Gift Card Program. Redeemable at over 80 businesses in our vibrant downtown, these gift cards offer a wide variety of shopping, dining, and service options. By keeping dollars circulating within our community, they directly benefit local entrepreneurs and help strengthen our economy.

The Shop Main Street Canada movement isn’t just about shopping—it’s about community. It’s about keeping our streets lively, businesses thriving, and local economy strong. When you shop locally, you invest in the people and places that make Burlington special.

Join the movement! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more updates on where to shop locally, support small businesses, and help keep our Main Street flourishing!