Yes, downtown businesses are affected by the tariffs.

The introduction of new tariffs has already negatively impacted small businesses in our city. Even more concerning, these tariffs add to a list of many ongoing challenges faced by small business owners. Fortunately, Downtown Kingston remains a vibrant, lively, and exciting place to visit. Many downtowns across North America have not been as fortunate.

However, it is crucial that WE TAKE ACTION—both as individuals and as a community—to ensure it stays that way.

You can help.

There are many ways you can make a difference.


Two women chatting outside a shop with shopping bags in a lively street.

Local First: Your Choice, Our Community

When you seek local solutions before alternatives, you're investing in the fabric of Kingston. Money spent locally recirculates through our community, supporting jobs, families, and neighbourhood vitality.

Even supporting franchises and chains with local employees contributes to our shared prosperity. Your "local first" mindset helps preserve the unique character that makes Kingston special.

A couple browsing wine bottles in a colorful store.

Pick It Up: Direct Support Matters

Those delivery fees add up—for both you and our local businesses. By taking a few minutes to pick up your order instead, you ensure more money goes directly to the business owner and their staff, not to third-party delivery platforms.

That personal connection when you walk through the door strengthens our community bonds while protecting local profit margins. 

A smiling cashier serving a customer in a colorful store.

Unplug: Rediscover Real-World Connection

Challenge yourself, your family, and your colleagues to take a meaningful break from online shopping—whether for a week, a month, or whatever works for you.

When you step away from the screen and into downtown shops, you experience the tactile joy of discovery that no algorithm can match. Touch the products, get personalized advice, and remember what shopping was meant to be. 

Person in a bathrobe sitting on a bed in a modern room.

Come Visit: Make It a Downtown Getaway

Transform an ordinary day into a downtown adventure! With Visit Kingston's Our City is Your City incentive package, visitors can save up to $200 on their next stay! Book a two night getaway at a participating Kingston hotel and get $100 off, plus $50 more for each additional night, up to four nights total.

Create a complete Kingston experience—shopping, dining, and exploring the waterfront—while supporting multiple local businesses during your stay. 

A couple enjoying a meal, pouring drinks at a restaurant.

Gift Cards: The Gift of Downtown Discovery

Use your Downtown Dollars and the Downtown Kingston Gift Cards to explore everything our vibrant downtown offers. These gift cards support local businesses but they only help when you use them!

Share the joy of discovery with a Downtown Kingston Gift Card, or show love to your favourite spots by purchasing their gift cards directly! 

A man smiling while taking a photo of a woman.

Share Our Stories: Amplify Local Voices

Downtown Kingston is sharing the authentic stories of business owners who have dedicated their lives to our community. These aren't corporate entities—they're your neighbours with dreams, challenges, and deep connections to Kingston.

Like, share, and follow their journeys—your digital support translates into real-world impact. Stick with us as we showcase the people behind the storefronts.