Why Every Small Business Needs a Website: Benefits, Costs & Grants

Introduction

In the digital age, consumers turn to search engines and social media to find products and services. Yet many small companies still operate without a website. A 2014 report by the Canadian Internet Registration Authority found that 40 % of Canadian small businesses did not have a website. More recent surveys in the United States show similar trends, with 28 % of small businesses lacking a website and 35 % of owners feeling they are too small for one. In reality, a website is the cornerstone of your online presence and plays a critical role in lead generation, credibility and sales.

Reasons a Website Matters

1. Customers Are Online

Consumers increasingly rely on the internet to research local businesses. A Business Development Bank of Canada article notes that Canadian customers expect businesses to be online because it’s where they shop, gather information and compare options. Without a website, you risk losing potential customers to competitors who appear in search results.

2. Credibility and Trust

Website design significantly influences credibility. Seventy‑five percent of consumers judge a company’s credibility based on website design. Poor user experiences have consequences—88 % of people are less likely to return to a site after a bad experience. A professional site with clear navigation, testimonials and contact information signals that your business is legitimate and customer‑centric.

3. Lead Generation & ROI

A website acts as a 24/7 storefront, allowing customers to learn about your offerings and contact you outside business hours. According to statistics gathered by SiteBuilderReport, 47 % of users expect a webpage to load in under two seconds, and slower load times reduce conversions. The same report notes that many small business websites lack clear calls‑to‑action or mobile optimization. By investing in a fast, mobile‑friendly site with obvious contact forms and booking tools, you can turn visitors into leads.

4. Cost‑Effective Marketing

Websites are one of the most cost‑effective marketing tools. A good site can replace expensive print ads and allow you to reach customers across Canada and beyond. Small businesses typically spend CA$2,000 to CA$10,000 on a website, with a basic site costing around CA$3,200. For this investment, you receive a long‑term asset that can be updated and improved as your business grows.

5. Access to Mobile Customers and Local Search

Mobile devices drive local search. Backlinko’s 2025 local SEO research found that 76 % of consumers who search for a product or service “near me” visit a business within a day, and 88 % of smartphone users who conduct a local search visit or call the business within a week. In addition, 60 % of mobile users call a business directly from search results. A mobile‑friendly website and complete Google Business Profile ensure you appear in these searches and capture high‑intent customers.

Website Maintenance and Update Frequency

Launching a site is only the beginning. Regular updates keep your content accurate, improve search ranking and protect against security threats. While there is no universal rule, aim to review and refresh key pages—such as services, pricing and blog posts—every quarter. Check contact information frequently and update design elements every two to three years to stay current with accessibility and performance standards.

Grants and Assistance for Building a Website

PEI offers financial assistance to help businesses establish or upgrade their web presence. The Web Presence Assistance program provides a non‑repayable contribution covering 50 % of eligible costs. Tier 1 (non‑e‑commerce) grants reimburse up to CA$1,000, and Tier 2 (e‑commerce) grants reimburse up to CA$2,500. Eligible costs include domain registration, design, development, content writing, hosting and limited online advertising. Applicants must be located in PEI, have not received similar funding in the last two years and apply before making financial commitments.

Conclusion

A professional website is no longer optional—it’s a necessity for small businesses that want to compete. With most consumers researching and contacting businesses online, a well‑designed, mobile‑friendly site enhances credibility, captures leads and delivers measurable return on investment. The cost of building and maintaining a site is modest compared with the long‑term benefits, and grants such as PEI’s Web Presence Assistance can offset initial expenses. By investing in your digital presence, you’ll position your business for growth in an increasingly online marketplace.