The Downtown is Where Business Happens
Considering a move from a home-based business to a brick- and-mortar location? St. Thomas’ downtown core presents an enticing opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to establish and grow their presence. With support from the St. Thomas Downtown Development Board (DDB), businesses gain access to a variety of promotional and financial incentives designed to help them thrive. “What you have with the DDB is the ability to access our social media networks, as well as our other advertising programs,” says Grayden Laing, President of the St. Thomas Downtown Development Board. “So, when a business comes to downtown, you’re not just putting up a store and doing everything alone. You can connect with the DDB, and we’ll provide advertising through our social media networks, which have reached hundreds of thousands of people over the years.”Beyond social media, the DDB collaborates with local media, including radio stations and publications like Hometown St. Thomas and the Downtown Vibe, to amplify business visibility. “When you’re in the downtown, you’re getting access to all this free promotion”. Downtown St. Thomas also offers a picturesque and well- maintained setting, thanks to initiatives led by the DDB. “We’ve worked really hard to make the downtown more beautiful over the years through our flower campaigns and hiring students to clean up the streets in the summer,” Grayden notes. Businesses also benefit from a strong sense of community. “You’re not just moving into a building; you’re moving into a community,” Grayden emphasizes. “You can build connections through our
BIA, attend monthly meetings, meet other business owners, and collaborate in ways that go beyond just the DDB’s initiatives.” Additionally, the DDB organizes popular events such as Nostalgia Nights and the Pumpkin Prowl, which draw large crowds downtown. “For Nostalgia Nights, we can have up to 10,000 people in the downtown core. If your business relates to cars, nostalgia, or restaurants, it’s a huge opportunity to engage with potential customers,” says Grayden. “We also have the Light Up Talbot event during Christmas, which encourages businesses to participate in a festive downtown experience that draws in shoppers.” Addressing concerns about security, Grayden assures business owners that safety measures are in place. “There’s a perception issue when it comes to crime, but in reality, downtown St. Thomas is safe. There are more special constables this year than ever before, and we’ve implemented a new fund to help cover deductible costs for businesses affected by vandalism.” For more information on setting up a business downtown, you can contact the DDB at ddb@stthomas.ca or speak with any board member. With strong promotional support, financial incentives, and a thriving community, downtown St. Thomas offers a compelling case for any business looking to make its mark.
THIRD ANNIVERSAY SALE MARCH 13th – 15th
Everything in store is 15% OFF* Fabrics • Notions • & Accessories *Except custom orders
MSM Fabrics & Quilting 519-870-0265 562 Talbot Street, St. Thomas www.msmfabrics.com
Page 32 Hometown St. Thomas • March 2025
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