Find ‘Made in BC’ Products on the BC Marketplace

In workshops around B.C., talented people are dreaming up, developing, and crafting unique products. Many of these businesses started with an idea over drinks or in the shower and became reality in the spare bedroom or garage, before being launched into the world.

Support your local inventors, creators, and artisans by buying from one of these small “Made in B.C.” businesses.

Squidworx, Whistler

Few things say B.C. like mountain-biking, and Whistler has become something of a mecca for mountain bikers around the world. We’re not just home to world-class mountains and trails; we can also boast about some true innovators in the mountain biking space. Squidworx, for example, created the world’s first modular bicycle pedal—designed, tested, and hand-assembled in Whistler. Choose from over 1,000 combinations to design your perfect pedal—then “give’er” next time you hit the trails.

Vanessa T Cunningham, Nanaimo

Vanessa T Cunningham is a third-generation textile artist in Nanaimo. She creates colourful, hand spun creations from her own range of wools—everything from head warmers and scarves to necklaces and tunics. Vanessa gets her inspiration from the hills, forests, and rivers around her home, and the result is unique wearable art. You can also buy her yarn to come up with your own creations.

Popov Leather, Nelson

Popov Leather is a classic example of taking a hobby and turning it into a business. Ryan Popoff had a dream to create a basic leather wallet that would fit in his pocket. A leatherworking kit, some scrap leather, and many nights at his dining table resulted in not only Ryan’s dream wallet, but a thriving family business with several employees from the Nelson community. Today, Popov Leather specializes in handmade leather wallets made to order, as well as a range of other leather products.

Lillie & Cohoe, Nelson

A 1930s warehouse in the heart of Nelson is home to Lillie & Cohoe, a small business that has been designing and making unique luxury hats since 1990. Co-founder Liz Cohoe may have left behind a 20-year fashion design career to settle in Nelson, but she brought he creativity with her. Lillie & Cohoe hats are now sold through retailers across Canada and the USA. The company now also designs and makes coats and vests from 100% boiled wool.

The Plane And Nail Co., Chilliwack

Looking for a unique piece of furniture for your home or business? Geoff Moore at The Plane & Nail Co. in Chilliwack designs and hand makes custom furniture and decor tailored to your space and need, or you can choose one of their designs. You can also make a real statement by commissioning a rustic wood wall made from hand selected barn wood and shiplap, sourced from non-industrial locations and cleaned and finished. Like many small businesses, The Plane & Nail Co. supports other local businesses and products through their work.

Treat yourself, or a loved one, this Holiday season with a unique, B.C.-made product from these and other makers and creators in the BC Marketplace.