This Saturday at 10 a.m. head down to Centennial Hall in Lake Cowichan for Community Connections: A Business Showcase. This local business symposium is free for attendees and boasts $400 in door prizes.
Attendees from around the lake will find displays from almost 40 local businesses like South Shore Cabinetry and Gerald’s Specialty Foods, and from the eight sponsor businesses.
“It’s more than a trade show. We’ve invited artisans as well because we have some really amazing artisans in this community,” said Glenda Osborne-Burg, organizer of the Community Connections showcase.
Businesses had to pay to participate and the 40 spaces at the showcase were, at the time of writing, almost sold out. The showcase was sponsored by eight local businesses and individuals.
“We’ve raised about $800 in sponsorships, plus another $400 or so in door prizes,” said Burg.
With almost 40 businesses in attendance at the showcase, it is a good way to start off Canadian Small Business Week (Oct. 19-24) and get a feel for the local business community.
“We may not be able to compete with the big box stores, but what we can do is offer specialty items that you can’t find in the bigger conglomerates,” said Burg.
When you arrive at the hall, you will be given a program complete with a passport.
“What we ask you to do is to visit at least 10 exhibitors, and each exhibitor you visit will put a stamp in your passport. That gives you eligibility for the door prizes,” said Burg.
You don’t have to remain in attendance to win. Door prizes include gift baskets from Country Grocer and Island Pharmacy, plus $100 and a one-year-free checking account from Island Savings.
As well, you will be able to vote for the best exhibitor at the showcase. The exhibitor who gets the most votes will receive the Community Connections People’s Choice Award.
“This is the first (Community Connections showcase) and judging from the response that we’ve received it will certainly be continued next year,” said Burg.
Visit Centennial Hall this Saturday to learn more about local businesses in the community and help make this first showcase a success.