Let’s be real: we all know the feeling. You see a cool new TTRPG zine, a stunning piece of character art, or an adventure that sounds absolutely wild. You want to support the creator, but your wallet gives you a side-eye and says, “Not today mate!"

We get it. And we’re here to tell you a secret: some of the most powerful ways to support indie creators won’t cost you a single loonie, toonie, or even a box of Timbits™ (but sharing them might be cool though.)

True support is about building a community that lifts each other up. So, if you’re ready to become a patron of Canadian arts without dipping into your coffee fund, here’s how.

1. BE THEIR HYPE PERSON ON SOCIAL MEDIA

This is the digital equivalent of giving someone a high-five in the hallway. It takes seconds and can make a creator’s entire day.

When you see a post about a new game, a crowdfunding campaign, or even a cool work-in-progress sketch, don’t just scroll past! Like it, leave an encouraging comment and/or share it to your own stories or feed.

Algorithms are mysterious beasts. Every like, comment, and share tells the algorithm, “Hey, this is cool! Show it to more people!” You’re literally helping your favourite creators be seen.

2. LEAVE A REVIEW

Got a free PDF? Played a one-page game? Read a cool supplement? Your opinion is gold.

Head over to Itch.io, DriveThruRPG, or the creator’s website and leave a short, honest review. You don’t need to write an essay. Just mention what you loved. “The artwork in this is stunning!” or “My group had a blast with this adventure. The ending was hilarious!”

Positive reviews are social proof. They help hesitant gamers take a chance on an indie creator. It’s one of the most impactful ways to help a game succeed long after launch day.

3. TALK THEM UP AT YOUR TABLE

Word-of-mouth is the OG marketing strategy, and it’s still ridiculously powerful.

Next time your gaming group is looking for something new, be the one to say, “Hey, I know this cool Canadian creator who made a game about polite ghosts/haunted donut shops/superhero moose. Wanna try it?”

Personal recommendations carry so much weight. By sharing about your favorite Canadian creator, you’re sharing your enthusiasm. One recommendation can turn a whole new group into fans.

4. ADD THEIR WORK TO YOUR PUBLIC LISTS

Are you the resident TTRPG expert among your friends? Curate a list!

On platforms such as Itch.io, you can create public collections. Make one called “Awesome Canadian-Made Games” or “My Favourite Indie Adventures” and add the games you love.

This is like creating a mini-gallery for your friends to browse. It’s a low-effort way to give multiple creators a spotlight.

5. ASK YOUR LOCAL GAME STORE TO STOCK THEIR GAMES

This is a pro-level move that makes a huge difference.

Next time you’re at your friendly local game store (FLGS), casually ask the owner, “Hey, have you ever considered carrying games from local Canadian creators? I know a few amazing ones!” You can even mention specific names or the CCU as a whole… Just sayin’.

Retailers normally pay attention to what their customers ask for. You’re helping build a bridge between creators and store shelves, making indie games more accessible to everyone.

6. SIMPLY TELL THEM YOU APPRECIATE THEIR WORK

Never underestimate the power of a kind, direct message.

See a game that floats your boat? Send the creator a quick DM or email. Just say, “Hey, I really enjoyed your game. Thanks for making it.”

Creating in a vacuum can be tough. Your message could be the thing that keeps a creator going on a difficult day. It’s a reminder that their work is out there, being seen and enjoyed. It’s pure, unfiltered fuel for the creative soul.

CHALLENGE ACCEPTED

Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to pick ONE advice from this list and apply it this week. Share a post, leave a review, tell a friend. It might not feel like much for you but trust us, for an indie creator, this is a huge deal!

Supporting the creative community isn’t just about money, it’s about connection.

Together, we can build a community where Canadian creators (and even all creators) don’t just survive, they thrive.

What’s your go-to way to support creators?
Share your ideas in the comments below!