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WeBC this holiday season is on a mission to promote and celebrate women-owned businesses in the Lower Mainland.

Photo courtesy Locality Brewing

Celebrate women-owned businesses with WeBC

By Richmond Sentinel

Published 11:51 PST, Fri December 8, 2023

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This holiday season, every dollar spent at a small business can make a big difference, helping to keep local businesses open and communities vibrant. To encourage shoppers to look local first, WeBC is on a mission to promote and celebrate women-owned businesses in the Lower Mainland.

WeBC is a not-for-profit organization that supports B.C.-based women business owners with startup and growth capital, business expertise, training, and regionally based mentors. As part of WeBC's efforts to propel and celebrate women entrepreneurs, the organization is encouraging local support for women-owned businesses this holiday season.

"At WeBC, we support thousands of talented women entrepreneurs across the province and the holiday season is one of the most important times of year for these small businesses," says Shauna Harper, WeBC chief executive officer. "We know that 69 per cent of women entrepreneurs integrate social impact into their businesses and 63 per cent prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices. During the holiday season, we have a choice and power with our spending dollars. When we support local women-owned businesses, we're investing in the sustainability and growth of our communities plus helping to move the dial forward in gender equity."

Melanie MacInnes is the proud owner of Locality Brewing in Langley, a community-focused brewery surrounded by the very ingredients that are used in the "Field to Glass" Locality craft beer. Locality is a welcoming space where locals can gather and enjoy handcrafted brews.

MacInnes highlights the importance of shopping at local, women-owned businesses this holiday season, saying, "It's a powerful way to uplift our community. It not only celebrates diversity and inclusivity but also empowers women in business, encouraging future generations to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Choosing to shop locally goes beyond the products, it's about fostering a sense of pride in our local business landscape."

MacInnes emphasizes her dedication to the community, expressing, "We're committed to giving back through charity events, locally sourced ingredients, and a welcoming environment. Our partnerships with the Waycea Métis society, Langley Farmers Institute, and BC Farm Museum demonstrate our commitment to the well-being of our local community."

The holiday season serves as a reminder of the positive impact that intentional shopping can have on local businesses and the broader community. This initiative aligns with WeBC's commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs and fostering growth in the Lower Mainland. MacInnes is a participant in the WeBC Mentoring Program, which connects women with experienced entrepreneurs to gain support, advice, and networks to grow their businesses.

Holiday shoppers can follow WeBC on Instagram to learn more about local women-owned businesses they can support this season. Women entrepreneurs looking for support for their business can connect with WeBC directly. Learn more at we-bc.ca