Support local SAIT alumni-owned businesses this holiday season

Since the pandemic, local and small businesses have been forced to adapt and pivot their operations to survive. Many have taken large financial hits and others have been forced to shut their doors — especially when competing with large online retailers.

“For most artists and makers, in-person shows were cancelled this year,” says Michelle Atkinson (NMPD ’03) “These shows are our main source of sales, and making the jump online can be overwhelming to try and stand out in such a large marketplace.”

Keep it local

In support of the city’s local businesses, The City of Calgary launched the #SupportLocalYYC program to connect Calgarians with locally owned and operated businesses in the city.

This year, we’re asking all Calgarians to #SupportLocalYYC.

Shop online, use curb side pickup, and encourage those in your network to shop local. Calgary businesses have done so much to adapt to this pandemic, and we can all play a part in supporting them through it. https://t.co/JH9lT0wYoS

— Naheed Nenshi (@nenshi) November 18, 2020

“Sharing a great local artist, maker or business with your network can help grow their network and their sales over time,” explains Atkinson. “It costs nothing to write a good review or share a post on your social networks, but it means everything to the business.”

SAIT alumni-owned holiday gift guide

As you search for that perfect, unique and locally-crafted gift this season, here’s a handy gift guide featuring some SAIT alumni-owned and operated businesses:

For the fashion-forward

• Erasmus Apparel
• Legal Hustle
• Project Clothing
• Honey Moo Designs

For the one-of-a-kind

• Michelle Atkinson
• Crafternoon

For the foodie

Restaurants

• Klein Harris
• Charbar
• Chix Egg Shop
• Charcut
• Modern Steak

Personal Chef experiences

• AE Chef Services – Calgary
• Chris Parnell Private Chef – Golden

Sweet tooth

• Bake My Day
• Dwarf Stars Chocolates
• Those Chocolates

For the procrastinator

• Shack Shine – Christmas lights, cleaning and more.

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Discover these businesses and many more on our SAIT Alumni Business Directory. Don’t forget to use the hashtags #SAITalumni and #SupportLocalYYC and leave an online review as you shop this holiday season!

Did we miss your business in the directory? Fill out the application form and we’ll be in touch.