Support local SAIT alumni-owned businesses this holiday season

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With the holiday season right around the corner, many Calgarians will start their search for the perfect gifts for their loved ones.

Since the pandemic, local and small businesses have been forced to adapt and pivot their operations to survive. Many have taken large financial hits and others have been forced to shut their doors — especially when competing with large online retailers.

“For most artists and makers, in-person shows were cancelled this year,” says Michelle Atkinson (NMPD ’03) “These shows are our main source of sales, and making the jump online can be overwhelming to try and stand out in such a large marketplace.”

Keep it local

In support of the city’s local businesses, The City of Calgary launched the #SupportLocalYYC program to connect Calgarians with locally owned and operated businesses in the city.

“Sharing a great local artist, maker or business with your network can help grow their network and their sales over time,” explains Atkinson. “It costs nothing to write a good review or share a post on your social networks, but it means everything to the business.”

SAIT alumni-owned holiday gift guide

As you search for that perfect, unique and locally-crafted gift this season, here’s a handy gift guide featuring some SAIT alumni-owned and operated businesses:

For the fashion-forward

For the one-of-a-kind

For the foodie

Restaurants

Personal Chef experiences

Sweet tooth

For the procrastinator


Discover these businesses and many more on our SAIT Alumni Business Directory. Don’t forget to use the hashtags #SAITalumni and #SupportLocalYYC and leave an online review as you shop this holiday season!

Did we miss your business in the directory? Fill out the application form and we’ll be in touch.

a view of the moutains and stream in between

Oki, Âba wathtech, Danit'ada, Tawnshi, Hello.

SAIT is located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of Treaty 7 which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina and the Îyârhe Nakoda of Bearspaw, Chiniki and Goodstoney.

We are situated in an area the Blackfoot tribes traditionally called Moh’kinsstis, where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. We now call it the city of Calgary, which is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta.