Right around campus, local legends are made.
The Canadian economy is shifting day by day. If you’re out and about, you probably see it in the nearest grocery with shelves emphasizing products “Made in Canada.” A little walk on the streets and local businesses wear their “Proudly Canadian” tags on site.
More than boosting the economy, this action proves to be a good cause for products and services that are right on your doorstep. The maneuver has fostered local connections, building stronger, closely knitted and vibrant neighbourhoods.
Looking for ways to support this movement? In this article, let’s spotlight your “shop locally” options. From goods to services, local brands take centre stage in this one. Let’s take it closer to home by highlighting businesses that sprung from Humber Polytechnich’s ranks — students or grads.
Here’s a list of Canadian local businesses that are right under your nose. Let’s get started!
Sweet Pics Photo Booth
Pic or it didn’t happen, right? A photo booth is the perfect addition to get the party started! At Sweet Pics Photo Booth, it’s more than just taking a photo — it’s an experience. With three customizable packages to choose from, they go above and beyond to match your needs. The service features digital images, on-site printing, GIFs and videos — making it easy to turn moments into shareable keepsakes. It’s the kind of activity guaranteed to light up any party!
The woman behind the business is Maria Camila Ruiz Tacha, a Humber’s bachelor of child and youth care program graduate. Tacha saw an opportunity to start the business when she recognized how Toronto’s landscape thrives on events happening all year round — from weddings and birthdays to corporate parties.
“Starting a photo booth business felt like the perfect fit because it combined my love for creativity, people and capturing joyful moments,” Tacha said.
With her business mainly serving the local community, Tacha said the best thing about Canadians is their strong sense of community and pride in where they live. She said clients adore local businesses because it offers more personalized and authentic experiences — one that larger chains can’t replicate.
“There’s something special about knowing who you’re buying from and feeling connected to the people behind the brand,” Tacha said.
Vogue Bouquets
Let’s be real. Nothing beats getting a bouquet of fresh flowers. Instant mood boost? Check. Dorm room upgrade? Double check. That’s where Vogue Bouquets comes in. This online shop makes sending stunning and customized floral arrangements for any occasion easy, serving the entire GTA with fresh arrangements that speak for itself.
A passion project turned into a full-on side hustle — that’s how Simran Kooner, an advertising and marketing communications student, describes her journey. She started her own business to fulfill a personal goal: working on her own terms and at her own pace.
“In my business, I focus on working within my customers’ budgets because I believe flowers should be affordable and accessible to everyone,” Kooner said.
Kooner said her flower shop aims to make beautiful blooms accessible and affordable for everyone. She appreciates that her clients share similar values, such as helping one another, fostering a genuine sense of belonging and now shopping locally. Kooner said that these principles run deep in Canadian society, and supporting local businesses is “a natural extension of this spirit.”
Nena’s Bakery
Craving a treat? Look no further than Nena’s Bakery, your go-to online stop for mouthwatering snacks and sweets. Nena’s has you covered whether you’re in the mood for something savoury or sweet.
There’s their empanadas — crafted to perfection and available in three irresistible flavours: cheese, chicken and beef. Got a sweet tooth? They also have creamy basque cheesecake bites — the perfect bite-sized dessert to satisfy any craving.
A relatively new venture, this business began in the apartment of three best friends in Mississauga. One of them is Arvin Javier, a supply chain management student, who said that the idea originally started as a joke among his roommates — one that quickly turned into something real.
“So far, we’ve had a couple of sales, and everyone who’s bought it has enjoyed it,” Javier said.
Javier said the support they’ve received has been incredible, even as a new business. In his view, Canadians genuinely love to shop locally. Beyond that, he sees it as more than just supporting the economy. Ultimately, he believes that when Canadians shop locally, it strengthens communities and empowers future entrepreneurs like them to grow.
Shop locally, love your own!
Access has never been easier when you prioritize local sourcing. Honestly, the best products are right at your doorstep and the great services come straight from your own neighbourhood. Supporting local means enjoying quality, convenience and a personal touch — all while strengthening your community.
Take note that this is only a small part of the radar. There are tons of local gems still waiting to be discovered. Chat with your friends about their go-to spots or stroll around campus — you might stumble on your next favourite purchase.
Got a student business you love to support? Put us on! Tag us @shareignite and let’s spread the local love.
Feature image courtesy of Mikhail Nilov via Pexels.
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