Small businesses are an essential part of the economy in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and it's crucial that they have opportunities to network, make sales, and grow their audience. This summer, there are several online and offline marketplace opportunities that small businesses can take advantage of to showcase their products and connect with potential customers. In this blog, we will highlight some of the best marketplace opportunities for smaller businesses in Toronto and the GTA.
1. Toronto Market Co
Toronto Market Co. is a fantastic marketplace for small business owners looking to grow their brand and connect with customers. With locations at Royal Bank plaza and Scotia plaza, Toronto Market Co. provides vendors with convenient spaces in the heart of downtown that are easily accessible to customers. The marketplaces ideal locations are situated in high-traffic areas, making them perfect locations to showcase products to a diverse audience. Furthermore, the marketplace management team at Toronto Market Co. is dedicated to creating a welcoming and collaborative environment for vendors, which fosters connections with fellow business owners and customers alike. With a range of booth options available, including shared spaces and individual booths, small business owners with varying budgets can participate in this bustling marketplace. All these factors make Toronto Market Co. an ideal marketplace location for small business owners in Toronto. Apply to be a vendor this summer on their webpage for applications.
2. Toronto Artisan Market
Toronto Artisan Market is a marketplace that provides a platform for local artisans and small businesses to sell their products. The market takes place in-person and online, and vendors can choose to participate in either or both. The market offers a range of products, including art, jewelry, home decor, and food products. You can apply to be a vendor at Toronto Artisan Market using their vendor application form.
3. Her Mrkt
Her Market is a fantastic opportunity for female small business owners to showcase their products and connect with a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. Located right on Queen Street West in Toronto, Canada, this marketplace offers a prime location with high foot traffic, providing vendors with exposure to a diverse audience and the opportunity to build brand awareness. As the name suggests, Her Market caters to female business owners, creating a supportive environment for all vendors. Her Market provides vendors with marketing support to help promote their business before, during, and after the event. The organizers are committed to empowering and uplifting women entrepreneurs, which can help to foster valuable networking and collaboration opportunities. Participating as a vendor at Her Market can be a great way for female small business owners to gain exposure, build their customer base, and connect with other female entrepreneurs in their community. Apply to be a vendor on their website to be a part of the next upcoming Her Market in early June.
4. Farmers' Markets
Farmers' markets are a great opportunity for small businesses that sell food products to connect with customers. Farmers' markets take place in various locations throughout the city and offer a range of fresh and locally produced food products. Small businesses can set up a booth and sell their products directly to customers. Research your local farmers market as there are various ones in each city. Farmer’s Market Ontario is a great resource to find what marketplaces are around you in Ontario. Check out their database of farmer’s markets on their website.
5. Shopify
Shopify is an e-commerce platform that provides tools and resources for small businesses to create an online store. The platform offers customizable templates, payment processing, and marketing tools to help small businesses create a professional and user-friendly online store. Shopify also offers resources and support to help small businesses grow their online presence and connect with potential customers. Along with being an online selling platform, Shopify has been a great collaborator for small businesses like E’s Element. You can read Shopify’s spotlight guest post with E’s Element which creates an opportunity to highlight our mission! Shopify invited E’s Element and many other businesses to participate in their Shopify Build Black marketplace in celebration of Black history month. You can read about the marketplace in our 2023 pop-up recap blog post. Keep an eye for more opportunities to attend or be a vendor at Shopify.
In conclusion, there are many marketplace opportunities available for small businesses in Toronto and the GTA this summer. These opportunities offer small businesses a chance to showcase their products, connect with potential customers, and grow their business. Whether it's through an online platform like Etsy or Shopify, or an in-person marketplace like the Toronto Artisan Market or farmers' markets, small businesses have many options to expand their reach and increase their sales. You can stay up to date with E’s Elements pop-ups and events to get inspired about future opportunities for your business!
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