Support Saskatoon launched as a way to help out small businesses and non-profits during the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus: Saskatoon small business directory launches for ‘heart of our community’

Kyle Gunderson (BE'10, BSc'12), a project manager at a local software firm and University of Saskatchewan graduate, said the conversation about finding beer led himself and Elden Dutton to create Support Saskatoon.

By Ryan Kessler | Global News

The pursuit of a craft beer during the pandemic inspired a pair from Saskatoon’s tech industry to help local businesses affected by COVID-19.

Kyle Gunderson, a project manager at a local software firm and University of Saskatchewan graduate, said the conversation about finding beer led himself and Elden Dutton to create Support Saskatoon.

The online directory lists Saskatoon-specific businesses and non-profits.

“Every business in the world seems to be struggling [during the pandemic], but the mom and pop shops here are what build our community,” Gunderson said in an interview with Global News.

“They’re our neighbours, they’re our friends. They’re the ones that are going to struggle the most.”

Less than 24 hours after the website’s launch Sunday, it accumulated more than 60 businesses. The site doesn’t have any ads or other method of making money for its co-founders.

Businesses hoping to join the list can simply email its co-founders.

“They’re the heart of our community, so anything we can do to support them, I’m happy to,” Gunderson said.

He added when the pandemic ends, Support Saskatoon will remain online for people looking to shop local.

Read more at https://globalnews.ca/.