Running a small business in Ottawa comes with unique opportunities and challenges. Digital marketing can help local companies stand out, but it’s easy to waste money on tactics that don’t drive results. This guide shares seven proven online marketing moves recommended by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) to attract customers in your city.
1. Claim your Google Business Profile
When potential customers search for services, Google displays a map with nearby company listings. Registering for a free Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) makes sure your firm appears on that map and gives searchers your hours, website link and location. Claim your listing at google.com/business and keep your information up to date.
2. List your business in local directories
Canadian companies can gain free exposure by adding their details to local directories. Popular options include Yellow Pages, Yelp, 411.ca and the Indigenous Business Directory. The Government of Canada hosts a convenient list of Canadian online directories; search for directories specific to Ottawa and submit your company.
3. Build a professional Facebook page
Facebook is still one of the most effective ways to build relationships with current and future customers. Create a dedicated page and categorize your company as a “local business” so that Ottawa residents can find you. Share engaging posts that reflect your brand’s personality and respond quickly to comments and messages.
4. Participate in local blogs and forums
Engage with your community by commenting on Ottawa‑focused blogs, forums and social media groups. Answer questions, share helpful advice and write guest posts when possible. Always include your website address in your signature so readers can learn more about you.
5. Gain exposure on local websites
Partnerships with local charities, professional associations and media outlets can bring powerful visibility. Collaborate on events, sponsor community initiatives or supply expert quotes for articles. When other organizations mention your business online and link to your site, search engines view you as more trustworthy.
6. Optimize your site for local searches
Search engines look for signals that your business serves a specific geographic area. Include keywords that describe both your products or services and your location (e.g. “Ottawa web design studio”) in your page titles, headings and body text. Make sure your address and phone number appear on every page and that your site loads quickly on mobile devices.
7. Localize your advertising
Pay‑per‑click (PPC) advertising can target searchers in a specific region so you don’t waste budget on out‑of‑town clicks. Most advertising platforms let you set geographic parameters down to the city or postal code. Combine localized ads with relevant landing pages to improve conversions.
Emerging trends for 2025
According to Constant Contact’s Small Business Now: Growth in Motion report, new and early‑stage entrepreneurs are increasingly “social‑media‑first” but are looking to diversify their marketing. Over half of surveyed businesses expect unpaid social media to remain their main channel, yet only 27 % plan to make email their primary channel and just 10 % will prioritize SMS. The study notes that owners who are most confident about growth are embracing AI: 41 % will use AI for data analysis and 39 % will use it to personalize customer experiences. Building strong customer relationships and adopting multiple channels—including email, SMS and AI‑powered analytics—will help Ottawa SMEs compete in 2025.
Final thoughts
Local marketing is about connecting with people in your community. Claiming your online listings, participating in local conversations and optimizing your website for Ottawa searches lay a strong foundation. Combine these moves with emerging digital trends and you’ll build a sustainable marketing strategy that grows with your business.