Support Your Community

Small businesses are the heart of local communities.

They create jobs, fuel innovation and help build the places we call home. Whether it’s your favorite family-run café or the auto shop that’s always honest with you, small businesses make everyday life more connected.

How vital are they? According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), there are 34.8 million small businesses in the U.S., making up 99.9% of all U.S. businesses. Together, they employ nearly 59 million people, accounting for 45.9% of the private workforce.

Small businesses created 61.1% of net new jobs between 1995 and 2023.

May is Small Business Month, but supporting local businesses matters all year long. It’s one of the best ways to keep your community strong and thriving.

Here are five simple ways to get started.

1. Shop Local When You Can

Every dollar you spend locally helps a neighbor and supports a dream. Most local businesses source, hire and reinvest nearby. That means your purchase has a ripple effect across the community, reaching more people than you might realize.

Here’s what shopping local can look like:

• Explore your neighborhood spots: Take a break from the big-box store to browse your local bookstore, boutique or corner bakery. You might find something special and get to know the people behind the counter.
  
• Buy fresh at the farmers market: Local markets support growers, bakers, and makers who pour their craft into every product. Plus, seasonal produce almost always tastes better.
  
• Shop small online: Many small businesses have digital storefronts. Try searching with “near me” or using filters that show sellers in your area. It’s an easy way to shop small from your couch and support local.

2. Spread the Word on Social Media

Most small businesses don't have big marketing budgets. But your voice can grow their reach more than any paid ad ever could.

You don’t need a huge following to make an impact. A single post or review from someone local can bring in new customers, build trust and help a business grow.

Spread the word in simple, meaningful ways:

• Leave a positive review: Think about how you decide where to eat, shop or book services. Reviews matter. A few thoughtful words on Google or Facebook can help someone else discover a great spot and boost the business in the process.
  
• Tag them in your posts: Whether it’s a perfect latte, a fresh haircut or a handmade candle that brightened your day, tag the business and share your thoughts. Add a picture to make the experience even more enticing.
  
• Engage consistently: Follow local businesses on social media, comment on their posts and share their promotions. It might seem small, but every like or comment helps their posts reach more people. The more you engage, the more visibility they get.

3. Choose Local for Everyday Services

It’s not just the big purchases that matter. The small, everyday services you buy — like getting a haircut, calling for car repairs or ordering flowers — can create meaningful opportunities for small businesses in your area.

How to make “local” part of your everyday routine:

• Use service providers: Hire nearby mechanics, accountants, hairdressers and other service-based businesses when possible. Build relationships with people who live just around the corner.
  
• Book small businesses for events: Planning a birthday party or fundraiser? Local venues, caterers and florists bring a personal touch.
  
• Take advantage of loyalty and referral programs: Many small businesses reward regulars with discounts or perks. It’s a win-win: you support them, and they thank you for it.

4. Give the Gift of Local

Sharing your favorite local spots is one of the easiest and most thoughtful ways to fuel your local economy.

Need some ideas? Here are a few local-friendly gifts worth giving:

• Give gift cards with heart: Perfect for birthdays, holidays or employee thank-yous. Gift cards give businesses a cash boost now and bring new customers in later.
  
• Build-your-own local gift basket: Mix and match treats, candles, artwork or skincare from your favorite local spots. It’s a one-of-a-kind gift that feels thoughtful and spotlights multiple businesses.
• Buy from local artists and makers: Handmade jewelry, ceramics, prints, or textiles offer something personal and memorable. No two are alike, and every purchase supports a local maker.
  

5. Simply Showing Up

Sometimes, the most impactful thing you can do is show up. Being there for local businesses makes a difference that goes beyond dollars and cents.

How to show you care, face-to-face:

• Attend local events: From grand openings to street fairs to Small Business Saturday, these events are a chance to discover new favorites, meet local entrepreneurs and help them build momentum.
  
• Get involved with your Chamber of Commerce: Chambers often spotlight local businesses and host networking events that strengthen your small business ecosystem. It’s a great way to stay connected with your local economy.
  
• Team up if you own a business: Collaborate with other small businesses through joint promos, pop-up markets or community initiatives. When local businesses join forces, everyone benefits.

This Small Business Month, consider taking a moment to show up for the local entrepreneurs who make your community feel like home. Support local entrepreneurs and discover new places to shop, dine and explore at the same time.

Need ideas or inspiration? Check out our Insights page for resources, tips and events that help strengthen small businesses near you.