Build Ecosystems, Not Empires
Written by Gelaine Santiago
You're invited: An urgent convo for small businesses in Canada about the new US tariffs. Tonight at 5PM(ET)
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Hi Reader,
After weeks of speculation, it’s official: the US is imposing 25% tariffs on goods made in Canada & Mexico and extra 10% on China starting tomorrow, Tues Feb 4th.
If your small business is like mine – Canadian e-commerce brands that rely heavily on the US market – the implications will be vast.
This news, on top of the attacks on immigrants and people of colour, has been overwhelming. We don’t have all of the answers, but my business partner (and husband) Jérôme and I have been deep in research, discussions & planning – trying to figure out what this means and how to move forward.
If you’re also trying to make sense of this before Tuesday, join our urgent community call tonight on Monday February 3rd at 5PM(ET)👇🏽
We’ll talk about:
- Where things currently stand
- What is/isn’t impacted by the US tariffs
- What this could mean for 🇨🇦 small businesses and possible scenarios
- Space for community discussion - share ideas, ask questions
To be clear: Jérôme and I aren’t “experts.” But after almost 10 years running two DTC e-commerce brands, we can share what we’ve learned and what we’re doing to navigate this.
This is overwhelming, but we don't have to go through it alone. When our institutions fail us, we've got each other. Stay rooted in community, your values, and your highest vision for your business and our community.
Sending hugs,
Gelaine
PS - Values Check
This gathering is for those who unequivocally believe:
- Black lives matter.
- Indigenous peoples continue to be harmed and must have reparations and land back.
- Trans rights are human rights and 2SLGBTQ+ rights must be protected
- There are no ethical billionaires.
- Genocide is wrong. Period.
It’s also for business owners who believe in community over competition, building inclusive wealth, and creating businesses that lift up our communities—instead of extracting from them.
If any of this doesn’t sit right with you, that’s fine. This space isn’t for you. Don’t sign up. Here's also the button to unsubscribe.
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