In Wednesday’s paper, the Nelson Star celebrated small business by putting together a special 20-page section that highlights 48 local businesses. It was a major undertaking by this newspaper and involved our entire staff in the process. We’re proud of the final result.
If you missed it, it’s worth checking out.
What really stands out when you flip through the pages of the section is the range of businesses we highlighted. From pizza shops to electricians to downtown retail shops, the list is impressive. Even with this written survey, it’s only a fraction of the businesses who serve this community on a daily basis.
Small business is the lifeblood of Canadian communities. Though large corporations are also vital in creating jobs and opportunities, it’s the little guy that adds the personality.
With an absence of industry or a major corporate employer, small business in Nelson is even more important. As wonderful as this community is, most people who want a piece of life in the mountains need to be creative and hardworking to make it happen.
It takes an extra dose of spirit to face the small town challenges and sacrifices, but most local business owners would likely agree the rewards make it worthwhile.
One other important aspect of small business jumps out of the special section — this community has it covered. Though the temptation to seek what we need on a daily basis from elsewhere is strong, the 48 businesses included in this round-up make it clear we pretty much have everything we need in our own backyard. If you can’t find it here, you’re not looking hard enough.
Thanks to all small business owners and employees in the Nelson area for their continued hard work. We hope readers take the chance to dig Wednesday’s special section out of the recycling bin and find out a little more about who is making this community a better place to live for all of us.