Let’s talk about hidden gems—those West Coast businesses you’ve probably never heard of but absolutely should. When most people think of the West Coast, they picture the big players: tech giants in Vancouver, craft breweries, or maybe the endless tide of outdoor brands. But there’s so much more happening out here. Small, local businesses are thriving, often in niches you’d never think about. And supporting them? It’s one of the best ways to keep our communities vibrant.
Here’s the thing about these businesses—they tend to solve specific problems or cater to passions in ways that bigger companies just can’t. Take, for example, a woodworking shop on Vancouver Island that specializes in custom paddles for kayakers. You’d never find something like that in a chain store, but it’s the perfect example of how the West Coast blends craft, utility, and a love of nature. These paddles aren’t just tools; they’re works of art. And they come with stories, from the materials sourced locally to the hands that shaped them.
Or let’s look at food. The West Coast is a treasure trove of small, family-run food producers. I recently heard about a sea salt company out of Salt Spring Island—how fitting is that? They harvest the salt right from the ocean, process it in small batches, and sell it to local markets and restaurants. It’s not just about the product; it’s about the connection to place. That’s something you can’t replicate on a larger scale.
Then you’ve got businesses that tap into the quirks of the region. There’s a company out of the Sunshine Coast that builds custom tiny homes, catering to people who want to live more sustainably or just escape the high cost of city living. Tiny homes are already a niche market, but out here, they’ve become a movement. These businesses don’t just sell you a product—they’re part of a lifestyle shift.
Another favorite? Niche adventure guides. Sure, you’ve heard of whale-watching tours or hiking guides, but what about foraging tours? There’s a company on the Gulf Islands that takes small groups into the forest to learn about edible plants and mushrooms. It’s educational, interactive, and so uniquely West Coast. And it’s often these smaller businesses that are the first to adapt to trends or offer something really personalized.
What makes these businesses stand out isn’t just what they do—it’s how connected they are to the community and the environment. They know their customers, they work with local suppliers, and they’re deeply rooted in the places they call home. That’s why they survive, even when times are tough.