8 Indigenous-Owned Businesses to Support in Vancouver

September 30, 2023, marks the third annual National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, when many people will wear orange to not only recognize the impacts of residential schools but to stand in solidarity with the survivors and their families.

However, September 30 is only one day of the year—and it’s important to remember that reconciliation needs to happen every day by educating yourself, advocating for others, and supporting where you can.  

Below, we’ve compiled a list of Indigenous-owned businesses operating in and around Vancouver—plus, where to buy orange shirts with proceeds going towards Indigenous artists and non-profits. Indigenous Tourism BC has an ever-growing list of businesses to support, but here are some local finds.

SHOP

Sḵwálwen Botanicals

Sḵwálwen Botanicals, based in Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), is an Indigenous skincare line that uses Skwxwú7mesh plant knowledge and traditions to develop products that fully nourish the skin. Founder Leigh Joseph, PhD, also wrote the book, Held By the Land, which is a guide to Indigenous plants for wellness. You can purchase it on the Sḵwálwen Botanicals website.

Sisters Sage

Created in September 2018, Sisters Sage uses traditional Indigenous ingredients to create self-care and wellness products. Founders Lynn-Marie and Melissa-Rae Angus, both from East Vancouver, created products that pay homage to their Indigenous heritage. Their most popular items are the Smokeless Smudge Spray and bath bombs.

Wickaninnish Gallery

In the heart of Granville Island lives the Wickaninnish Gallery, a 100-percent Indigenous-owned boutique. The Wickaninnish offers high-quality, yet affordable, art and gifts that feature emerging and established Indigenous artists

Charlie & Lee

Offering handpicked and ethically sourced products is Charlie & Lee, a Métis-Cree-owned and independently operated clothing and home goods shop. Think: fall wardrobe staples and mugs you wouldn’t mind leaving on the counter.

STAY

Skwachàys Lodge

Looking for a staycation in downtown Vancouver? The Skwachàys Lodge is a three-level boutique hotel with a street-level art gallery. What really makes this place stand out is its Artists in Residence Program, which offers on-site housing and studio space for Indigenous artists. If you stay at the hotel or purchase art from the gallery, the money goes towards housing an artist.

EAT

Salmon n’ Bannock

Salmon n’ Bannock Bistro is Vancouver’s only Indigenous-owned and -operated restaurant. The intimate dining experience focuses on First Nations food and traditions. Owner Inez Cook is also the author of the children’s book The Sixties Scoop.

Bangin’ Bannock

You can purchase a Bangin’ Bannock fry-bread mix at multiple local shops all over the Lower Mainland. This Indigenous- and women-owned business is based on family recipes and all you have to add is water before frying up some tasty bannock.

DO

Talaysay Tours

The dreary cold months are coming, but there are still some fun outdoor activities you can enjoy. Talaysay Tours offers five different eco-tourism adventures in and around Vancouver, Squamish and the Sunshine Coast—everything from forest bathing to air tours.

WHERE TO PURCHASE ORANGE SHIRTS

The orange shirt has become a symbol of reconciliation. Check out our extensive list of where you can buy an orange shirt from 2022 for September 30 as well as these additions.

London Drugs

London Drugs is an official sponsor of Orange Shirt Day, and you can purchase a T-shirt at any of their locations. All proceeds go to the Orange Shirt Society.

 

Aritzia

Created by Indigenous artist Morningstar, this custom-made orange shirt for Truth and Reconciliation Day also supports the Orange Shirt Society, with 100 percent of proceeds being donated. It’s currently sold out online, but select stores may still have some available.

 

Make your own shirt with Shaina Stephens

September 30, 2023 

Times: 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

Location: Museum of Vancouver 

Admission: Tickets: $85 for general, $70 for seniors (65+), MOV members, students (with ID), $50 for Indigenous peoples 

To learn more about Orange Shirt Day, how you can get involved, and where to donate visit: orangeshirtday.org