A wave of Canadian pride is sweeping the nation — and here in Northumberland, we are turning that energy into action. In response to recent economic uncertainty and trade tariffs, local businesses, organizations, and community leaders have united to launch the Northumberland Buy Local movement: an initiative focused on enhancing our local economy and supporting our neighbours, friends and family members who own or work at local businesses in Northumberland.
The campaign features a Buy Local pledge, business and consumer research surveys, and a variety of business supports — all aimed at encouraging residents to shift more of their everyday spending to businesses right here at home.
On Wednesday, June 18, 2025, members of County Council joined forces with ‘Prosper In Northumberland’ – a task force made up of over 30 representatives from local business associations, chambers of commerce, municipalities, media and businesses from throughout Northumberland – to officially kick off the Northumberland Buy Local campaign by signing the Buy Local pledge.
In signing this digital pledge, they committed to redirecting a portion of their average monthly spending towards local businesses in Northumberland.
The Buy Local Pledge is open to everyone — residents, business owners, and local workers from across Northumberland — and offers a flexible commitment where participants can choose to redirect $10 to $100 per month to local businesses. Whether the local spending is on groceries, services, dining, experiences or gifts – it all makes a powerful difference in the community.
For those already doing most of their shopping locally, signing the pledge is a great way to show your support and encourage others to join the movement.
In addition to the pledge, community members and local business owners can also support the movement by sharing their valuable insight through two short surveys — one for consumers and one for business owners. Insights gathered from these surveys will help shape future programs and better support the local shopping experience in Northumberland.
How to get involved
Sign the Buy Local pledge
Redirect a portion of your average monthly spending ($10 to $100 per month) toward local businesses in Northumberland County or reaffirm your commitment to already directing most of your average shopping to local businesses.
Take the Northumberland Buy Local pledge: BuyNorthumberland.ca
Share your insight
We are seeking insight from community members on their local shopping habits, preferences and what would encourage them to shop local more often.
Take our consumer survey
We are also seeking feedback from local business owners on the impacts of trade tariffs, their business-to-business shopping habits and supports that would help them thrive.
Take our business owner survey
Spread the word
Download and share our digital toolkit: Show your support for the Buy Local movement by downloading and sharing social media graphics, printable signs and more!
Coming soon – Get a free lawn/window sign or vinyl sticker to show your support: Visit select locations across Northumberland County to pick up a free lawn sign, window sign for your local business, and/or removable vinyl sticker for your window, car or other glass surface, to show your support of the #BuyNoco movement.
These items will be available for pick up within the next couple weeks – stay tuned to our website for pick up locations.
All materials are available on a first-come, first-served basis, while quantities last.
Additional information will be shared in the coming months, including future survey results, opportunities for business-to-business partnerships, and additional business resources. For the latest updates, visit BuyNorthumberland.ca.
Quotes
“Buying local keeps money circulating in our communities and supports the small businesses that give Northumberland its character and heart. I am proud to sign the Buy Local pledge to support my neighbours’ jobs, our local economy and to take advantage of the unique products, services and experiences available right here in Northumberland.” – Brian Ostrander, Warden of Northumberland County
“Prosper In Northumberland is all about coming together as a community and having each other’s backs during tough economic times. When we choose to shop local, we’re lifting up our neighbours and keeping our community strong. Every little bit helps—and it all starts with us.” – Peter Dounoukos, Account Executive for My Broadcasting Corporation and Co-Chair of the Prosper in Northumberland Operating Group
“The Prosper In Northumberland initiative aims to unite our community in support of one another during these uncertain economic times. We encourage everyone to get involved and create meaningful impact by redirecting spending locally.” – Rob Day, Northumberland County Manager of Economic Development and Co-Chair of the Prosper in Northumberland Operating Group
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
