How a free Vancouver market next week is helping ensure no one is left behind
A pop-up market is hosting its first springtime edition in downtown Vancouver next week, and it’s a great opportunity to shop for unique items while supporting up-and-coming local entrepreneurs.
Employ to Empower’s Make Change Market, made possible in part by Hudson Pacific Properties, is happening on Thursday, May 28, at Three Bentall Centre Breezeway at 595 Burrard St.
The free event features creative products and homemade goods and offers an opportunity to meet low-income entrepreneurs from around Vancouver.
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“Make Change Market is our highly anticipated annual pop-up market, returning by popular demand and dedicated exclusively to showcasing ETE product and service entrepreneurs,” said Vivian Wong, entrepreneur engagement lead, to Daily Hive. “The market is designed to promote small businesses, support entrepreneurs in landing their first sales, and foster meaningful customer connections.
“This summer, we’re also excited to launch our first Make Change Market Summer Edition in the heart of Downtown Vancouver —inviting both returning supporters and new faces to explore, shop, and champion local entrepreneurs as experienced vendors debut and test their new summer products.”
Employ to Empower
Employ to Empower is a Vancouver charity that uses entrepreneurship to empower low-income communities to overcome barriers to employment. Over 400 people have taken its program since 2018, overcoming mental or physical health challenges, disability, and recovery from addiction, with an average completion rate of 87 per cent.
The free Make Change Market, themed “Together We Build,” will showcase a wide variety of items, including charcuterie boards, jewelry, and more.
Several of the entrepreneurs will also showcase art, workshops, and peer support businesses at the event.
Employ to Empower
Make sure to snap a picture in the photobooth while enjoying some live music at Three Bentall Centre Breezeway.
And someone who RSVPs online and attends will even win a round-trip flight with Helijet between Vancouver and Nanaimo, or Vancouver and Victoria, valued at $2,000.
“Make Change Market is a one-of-a-kind experience that empowers low-income entrepreneurs who face barriers to gaining sales experience, confidence, and visibility,: added Wong.
“Every entrepreneur featured at the market completes in-house training that teaches the fundamentals of boothing and customer engagement —making this, for many, the very first time they publicly showcase their business. By showing up and supporting our entrepreneurs, the community helps turn passion into purpose and celebrates small businesses.”
Employ to Empower
Donations to support Employ to Empower‘s important initiatives can also be made online.
Employ to Empower’s Make Change Market
When: Thursday, May 28, 2026
Time: 1 to 5 p.m.
Where: Three Bentall Centre Breezeway – 595 Burrard St., Vancouver
Cost: Free, register online
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