Brampton small businesses can get free online stores after city joins ShopHERE initiative

Yorkregion.com
June 4, 2020

The City of Brampton is looking to help out local brick and mortar independent businesses and artists who have been forced to close up shop, or who have seen customer volumes dwindle due to measures and restrictions aimed at combating the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The city has teamed up with Toronto-based Digital Main Street (DMS) to participate in its recently launched ShopHERE initiative, which is aimed at helping independent businesses and artists build an online presence to offer and sell their goods, services and works in the e-commerce marketplace, at no cost to them.

DMS developed the ShopHERE program in partnership with vendors including Google, Shopify, Mastercard, Microsoft, Facebook, eBay, and eShipper, and was first launched in the City of Toronto.

“As part of the ShopHERE program, businesses receive their choice of an online store customized with their specific information and branding. They also receive assistance with setting up and launching their online store, and training to support them in areas like digital marketing, shipping and inventory management,” said the city in a release.

“Google announced a $1-million commitment to launch the program nationally, and Brampton is one of the first to be involved,” it added.

In order to qualify for the program, a business must be independent (not part of a franchise or chain) and have fewer than 10 employees. Cafés, bars and restaurants with fewer than 25 employees are also eligible.

Small businesses interested in participating can apply at www.digitalmainstreet.ca/shophere.

“As we look toward economic recovery, we will be implementing a variety of programs and approaches to boost Brampton’s economy and provide support for our local business community. ShopHERE is one initiative which will help us put the needed supports in place for our businesses to rethink their approaches moving forward,” said wards 2 and 6 Coun. Michael Palleschi, who also serves as co-lead on the city’s COVID-19 Economic Support Task Force.