Supporting local not only helps drive the growth of the economy but it also generates employment for many communities. It's easy to understand why local businesses have become the backbone of our economy. Big corporations tend to focus on increasing value for their shareholders and ultimately their bottom line. Yet, local businesses tend to focus on providing customers with value and satisfaction. They also generate employment opportunities for many local communities. So, imagine a world without local businesses, without the local bakery around the corner or that clothing store that produces one of kind items that makes you feel like a million bucks. It may be hard to imagine, but it's not far off with the current pandemic that we are living in.  

Luckily, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce on behalf of the national Chamber network has created the Canada United Small Business Relief Fund to help small Canadian businesses with their efforts because of COVID-19. President of stevensE3, Cam Stevens, says this is more than just a fund; it has become a movement. As a local business ourselves, we know the hardships that local businesses are going through, as we have experienced many of these challenges as well, but we’re confident that as we work together through these difficult times we’ll be able to come out of this stronger as a nation.

Small businesses within Quebec, PEI, Newfoundland, New Brunswick, and the Territories can apply for the relief grant of up to $5,000. The relief grant can be used for COVID-19 recovery efforts, such as purchasing PPE, renovating physical spaces, or developing e-commerce capabilities. Here is a link to learn more about the Canada United Small Business Relief Fund.

At the beginning of the pandemic Stevens had to explore ways to help our displaced staff with work, and our customers with their COVID19 solutions, helping them get back to work. The shift in focus to create a line of PPE signage and barrier solutions to help other businesses seemed a natural choice. StevensE3 has tailored their service offerings to ensure that small and large businesses across Canada can receive cost-effective and innovative signage solutions to provide safe shopping and working experiences for customers and staff alike. As a leader within the exhibition industry stevensE3 has assembled a team of highly skilled craftsmen, interior, and graphic designers who can represent their clients' brand values in various spaces from exhibition halls to office and retail environments. Stevens adds, “Right now, we’re reshaping office environments to make them bolder, fresher and safer for all.”