In just its first week, the West Nipissing Small Business Fundraiser has raised over $1,200 for local businesses.
The fundraiser is Greg Smith’s (co-owner of Body Maxx in West Nipissing) brainchild. He decided to raise funds for businesses on a whim back in February after speaking with a friend and hasn’t stopped since.
“There are a lot of local businesses involved,” said Smith. “22 businesses are profit-sharing, and another 8 have also helped by donating various items of gift cards, but aren’t taken profits.”
Smith went out to many businesses in town and asked if they were interested in the project. After tallying up a large amount of that interest, Smith and the businesses set up various packages that are up for grabs (all valued at over $240).
The packages feature a wide variety of goods from participating businesses.
A ticket is $20, and with it, participants not only support businesses involved and a chance at the packages but they also automatically get their name thrown in for a variety of other prizes until the main draw is done on April 29th.
“It’s a way for all of us to support… all of us. Not just a single business. That’s the whole idea. This fundraiser, how well it’s been going so quickly just goes to show how much West Nipissing supports each other. It’s been a collaborative experience. $20 really goes a long way.” said Smith.
For more information on the fundraiser or to purchase tickets, visit its official website here or the Facebook group here.