January 2024 Economic Development Update:
Some people think that economic development is all about securing that one big, bricks-and-mortar business that’s going to be the solution to all our challenges. What people may not realize is that according to the 2021 Census, Sunrise Corner has a rate of entrepreneurship that is more than double the provincial rate. That’s why one of our main areas of focus since day one has been helping small business grow and new businesses launch.
To help small business promote their products and services, events and job openings, we have created a number of free tools. One of those tools is the business directory, available both online and as a print version (pick yours up at the RM offices in Vassar or Vita). We set up basic listings for all businesses that were listed in previous RM directories and have been adding businesses as we hear about them.
A local business directory is as much about helping businesses promote their offerings as it is about helping residents find the products and services they’re seeking right here in our region. It is better for everyone in Sunrise Corner if local money is spent at local businesses. Indirectly, it’s even more than that. It’s showing potential residents the goods that are available here when they’re considering moving to the area. It’s about showing the gaps so that entrepreneurs, whether from within our region or from beyond, can consider starting new businesses here to meet local needs. It’s also about showing that people can live in our beautiful corner of the province because they want this unparalleled quality of life without having to be close to their customers in other parts of the province, country or world.
Over the coming months, we will be promoting the business directory and the existing businesses that have updated their listings as well as new businesses that have added their listings. Follow our Sunrise Corner Economic Development Facebook page for business profiles.
If you would like your Sunrise Corner-based business to be considered for an upcoming social media profile, simply update your existing business listing on the directory, or if your business is not yet listed, create a new listing. You can either log on yourself to claim or create a listing, or we’re happy to help.
As always, we encourage you to shop local. Let’s all contribute to a prosperous 2024 for all our local businesses.
Monique Chenier
monique@sunrisecornermb.ca