In today’s fast-paced world, supporting local small businesses has never been more important. Not only do these businesses contribute to the local economy, but they also bring unique products and services to our communities that big corporations simply can’t match. With over 30 million small businesses in the United States alone, they account for 99.9% of U.S. businesses, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. So how can we ensure these vital parts of our community thrive?

Here are ten effective ways to support local small businesses and boost their visibility, combining both online and offline strategies.

1. Shop Local

The Impact of Local Spending

One of the simplest ways to support local small businesses is to shop local. Studies show that for every $100 spent at a local business, approximately $68 stays within the community, compared to only $43 when spent at a national chain. This reinvestment in the community helps create jobs and stimulates the local economy.

Implementation Tips

• Visit Local Markets: Attend farmers markets or craft fairs to discover local products.
• Join Local Loyalty Programs: Many small businesses offer discounts or rewards for repeat customers.

Real-World Example

In Portland, Oregon, the “Little Boxes” initiative encourages consumers to shop at local stores during the holiday season by offering prize drawings and discounts, significantly boosting sales for participating businesses. Read more here.

2. Leave Positive Reviews

Why Reviews Matter

Online reviews are crucial for small businesses, with 93% of consumers saying that online reviews influence their purchasing decisions. Positive reviews can boost a business’s credibility and attract new customers.

Implementation Tips

• Be Specific: Highlight particular products or customer service experiences in your review.
• Use Multiple Platforms: Post reviews on Google, Yelp, and the business’s Facebook page.

Real-World Example

A coffee shop in Seattle saw a 20% increase in foot traffic after a local blogger encouraged followers to leave positive reviews on Yelp, demonstrating the power of word-of-mouth.

3. Social Media Engagement

Harnessing the Power of Social Media

With over 2 billion active users on Facebook alone, social media is a powerful tool for increasing visibility for local small businesses. Engaging with small businesses online helps spread the word and attract new customers.

Implementation Tips

• Share Content: Share their posts and tag friends who might be interested.
• Create Authentic Content: Post photos of your purchases or experiences at the business.

Real-World Example

A small boutique in Austin, Texas, gained 1,000 new followers in a month after a local influencer shared her shopping experience, showcasing the potential reach of social media engagement.

4. Attend Local Events

Building Community Connections

Attending local events, such as street fairs, networking mixers, or product launches, supports small businesses and provides them with much-needed exposure. This form of community engagement fosters relationships and builds customer loyalty.

Implementation Tips

• Volunteer: Offer to help organize or run events.
• Bring Friends: Attend events with friends to increase attendance and support.

Real-World Example

The annual “Taste of Chicago” event features local restaurants, drawing thousands of attendees and significantly increasing visibility and sales for participating eateries.

5. Collaborate with Local Influencers

Influencer Marketing for Small Businesses

Partnering with local influencers can significantly boost a small business’s profile. Influencers can help reach a broader audience and lend credibility to a business’s brand.

Implementation Tips

• Choose Relevant Influencers: Look for influencers whose values align with the business.
• Offer Incentives: Provide influencers with free products or services in exchange for promotion.

Real-World Example

A bakery in New York City doubled its Instagram following after collaborating with a local food blogger, resulting in increased foot traffic and online orders.

6. Word-of-Mouth Referrals

The Power of Personal Recommendations

Word-of-mouth referrals remain one of the most effective ways to support local small businesses. Recommendations from friends and family are trusted more than any other form of advertising.

Implementation Tips

• Be Vocal: Talk about your favorite local businesses with friends and family.
• Use Referral Programs: Encourage businesses to establish referral programs that reward customers for bringing in new clients.

Real-World Example

A local gym in San Francisco increased its membership by 15% through a referral program that rewarded current members with free classes for each new signup.

7. Host a Community Workshop

Fostering Education and Community

Hosting workshops or classes at a local business can draw in potential customers and increase community involvement. These events can highlight the business’s expertise and build a loyal customer base.

Implementation Tips

• Choose Relevant Topics: Select workshop topics that align with the business’s offerings.
• Promote Widely: Advertise the event through flyers, social media, and local newsletters.

Real-World Example

A small bookstore in Denver regularly hosts author readings and writing workshops, drawing in new customers and cultivating a community of book lovers.

8. Buy Gift Cards

Supporting Businesses Financially

Purchasing gift cards is a great way to support local small businesses, especially during challenging economic times. Gift cards provide immediate revenue and encourage future visits.

Implementation Tips

• Give as Gifts: Use gift cards as presents for friends and family.
• Purchase for Future Use: Buy gift cards now to use at a later date.

Real-World Example

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many restaurants in Los Angeles offered discounted gift cards to maintain cash flow, helping them stay afloat during lockdowns.

9. Volunteer Your Skills

Giving Back to the Community

Volunteering your skills to help a local small business can be invaluable. Whether it’s offering marketing advice, accounting help, or even painting a storefront, your assistance can make a significant difference.

Implementation Tips

• Identify Needs: Speak with business owners to understand where help is needed.
• Offer Proactively: Suggest ways you can assist based on your expertise.

Real-World Example

A graphic designer in Pearland helped a local bakery revamp its branding and packaging, leading to increased sales and a stronger brand identity.

10. Join Local Business Networks

Building Business Alliances

Joining or forming local business networks can provide small businesses with resources and connections to thrive. These networks offer support, advice, and collaborative opportunities.

Implementation Tips

• Attend Meetings: Regularly participate in network events and meetings.
• Share Resources: Exchange ideas and resources with other members.

Real-World Example

A local chamber of commerce in Houston organized a monthly networking event, helping small business owners connect with suppliers and customers, leading to increased collaborations and sales.

Supporting local small businesses is a community effort that requires both online and offline strategies. By shopping local, engaging on social media, attending events, and volunteering skills, we can all contribute to the success of these businesses. As we help them thrive, we enrich our communities and ensure the availability of unique and diverse products and services.

How do you support local small businesses in your area? What strategies have you found most effective? Share your thoughts and inspire others to take action in their communities.

---