As Niagara’s only artisan pet “barkery,” Endless Pawzabilities in St. Catharines specializes in soft and fresh baked pet treats. It also stocks natural health-care products and toys, and pet accessories crafted by local artisans.
Janice and Phil Graham bought the existing business in August 2021. With substantial experience in animal advocacy, they decided the time was right to become entrepreneurs and pursue their passion for our furry friends … regardless of the challenges posed by the pandemic.
With much to learn about marketing online and connecting with customers, Janice turned to Digital Main Street (DMS) and its $2,500 Digital Transformation Grants. She quickly came to appreciate the stresses that come with being a business owner, such as building connections with customers online and establishing supplier relationships.
“The DMS Digital Service Squad has been there at every step and came in to coach and advise,” she said. “This really helped me find my footing.” The Digital Service Squad was led the City of St. Catharines.
Janice has found that success depends on devoting as much time to her online presence as she does to engaging with customers in-store.
“As a business owner, you have to get past the fear of trying something new and turning to a program like DMS,” she added. “The grant money is helpful, but the real value is in the free webinars, the people you meet and their expertise. This is so helpful to keep you motivated with the day-to-day challenges that we face right now.”