A Moment with the Mayor: Small businesses are pivotal

As fall wraps us with colour and leaves, my thoughts turn to one of the anchors in our community – small businesses. Many of us had our first shopping experience in a grocery store, a place to purchase items not grown in the garden or raised on our farm.

Fast forward to today and our growing community. There are numerous small businesses on our streets with many new ideas and home-based businesses. Small businesses in and around our community serve a variety of individuals, families and even other businesses. With multiple opportunities to browse merchandise, some services include auto repair, and there are always those offering personal health needs, hair and nails and everything in between.

Challenges that face small businesses can be unique, and many struggles are known only to those who have owned or worked in a small business. The list of areas of responsibility is daunting, from investing your life savings, payroll, inventory, leasing or purchasing property, staffing and customer service.

Small businesses can look to organizations such as the Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce for support, advice and opportunities to share and learn from other business owners. There are opportunities to provide health benefits for staff and owners through the Chamber. Other organizations, such as Community Futures and Startup Lloydminster, provide resources and connections to help move your business ideas forward and upward. They provide knowledge and connect you to grants, mentorship and growth opportunities you may not know about.

As the Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated its annual business awards, I want to congratulate all the nominees and award winners. In my mind, every business in our community is a winner and makes our community better. Thanks to everyone, the sole entrepreneur and those with businesses that employ many, your dedication to our city and your workplace makes Lloydminster a great place to work, raise a family and call home.

I hope you consider Lloydminster businesses as you shop. These are our neighbours, friends and family. By supporting them, you are adding life to our community. Thank you, Lloydminster small businesses, for all you do in our community!

Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers
City of Lloydminster