The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting health orders had a devastating effect on many local entrepreneurs, including The Meat Doctor in Dawson Creek.
Prior to the pandemic, this full-service catering and food truck operation was fully booked, however the loss of bookings and a non-operational food truck resulted in a drastic loss of revenue.
The Meat Doctor was able to pivot by offering a frozen meal program for seniors and partnering with a local café to offer gourmet meals, however, the owner Marsha Stewart knew she needed additional resources to sustain the business and applied to Northern Development for funding in 2021.
“The SBR program allowed us to develop and launch a professional website that now connects us to a broad customer base,” said Stewart. “Our customers can now find us online and connect with us directly through the website. Having this professional online presence has proven to be invaluable to our business.”
Through the Small Business Recovery (SBR) program, Stewart received an $8,330 rebate to work with a consultant to develop a website that allows customers to order and pay for meals online.
“We appreciate the hard work that the NDIT staff and directors do to make programs like this possible,” said Stewart. “They truly have an impact on small businesses and communities here in the north.”
The project included a market and brand analysis, the development of a brand identity and guideline document, visual assets, website development strategy and e-commerce website. The site allows The Meat Doctor to achieve online sales and book event tickets.
