Opportunities for new businesses in St. Stephen
In 2017, Future St. Stephen commissioned a business gap analysis research project to help determine what new businesses are needed in St. Stephen and hence what opportunities are available to interested entrepreneurs. That study has been shared widely and a summary is available to anyone who wants a copy.
It is important to identify new opportunities, but it also points out how much of our money we spend in the community and how much we spend outside of it. Some is spent outside the community by necessity – certain things simply are not available locally. But that gap is closing and we need to support the folks who are taking a chance and trying to service our needs here.
Those new and existing business owners also own homes here, buy groceries here, rent or build business space, hire local people, contribute to local charities and recreational groups, and most importantly they are helping us grow as a community.
Sounds like a “Shop Local” appeal, and it is. People are investing time and money in our community and they need our support. 5,000 people spending just $50 more locally per month is $3 million directly into our local economy. That’s significant. As business owners we also have a responsibility to do what we are asking our customers to do – buy local.
If you are interested in starting a business and would like access to the Business Gap Analysis Report, contact FSS.
