Archive News from Digital Main Street

Immigrating to a new country often comes with numerous challenges, but for Paul Martinez, the decision to move from the Philippines to Canada was driven by a deep sense of purpose and a commitment to providing a better future for his family.  

Meet Mel Broadbent, a resilient, determined young woman living in Lac La Biche, Alberta. Employed as a Digital Service Squad (DSS) by Community Futures St. Paul, Mel works hard to support local businesses in her community through the Digital Economy Program, while embracing her unique neurodiversity. Her story reflects the impact of inclusive employment initiatives, particularly for those living with autism in a rural community.

Though the programs and roles throughout Lise's journey have changed, Lise's mission remains the same: To empower small business owners. "The most rewarding part of the job for me is seeing business owners go from defeated to excited as they gain the confidence to use and learn new technologies", says Lise.

"If you want to increase your online footprint, be seen online, and grow your business, then the DEP is for you. The tools and resources that they provide will help new, and established companies succeed in the digital world." 

- Jared Franklin | Travelling Timbers

This week we are featuring Alanna Eastcott-Bitzer and Tannis Jeffers, co-owners of Bright Beginnings Montessori in Penhold, Alberta. After noticing a gap in their market for more quality education options, Alanna and Tannis took action, and in early 2023 they launched Bright Beginnings Montessori. Their teaching methodologies offer a fresh angle to learning that focuses on independence, freedom within limits, and respect for a child’s natural psychological, physical, and social development. With a new business venture underway, Alanna came to the Digital Economy Program (DEP) to help take the next step in growing her and Tannis' digital presence.

“I am thankful that with the help of Community Futures Digital Squad members, I have a website now. Aside from having a website, I also learned how to schedule my post through the Meta business suite. I really learned a lot from the program.”

“It is free, will transform your business's online presence and attract new customers in existing and new markets. It helped with getting SkyLight online and in developing a social media plan. As such it is now easier for potential customers to find SkyLight online.”

Main street businesses couldn’t matter more to the city of Burlington. “We actually have the highest retail concentration in Ontario,” explains Andrew Elliston, manager of business development at Burlington Economic Development Corporation (BEDC). So when COVID-19 hit, supporting that vital economic driver for the region was paramount.

Main street businesses can no longer treat digital presence as an afterthought. The pandemic has proven that, says Jamie Nowe, digital marketing expert and team lead for Durham’s Digital Main Street program.  

Beamsville and Lincoln sit in the heart of the Niagara wine region, an area that benefits heavily from a steady flow of daytrippers and getaway seekers. But this year was decidedly different, shaped by the pandemic’s swings and the slow-rolling regulations put in place to stop the spread of COVID-19.