There are many reasons why small businesses need your help to thrive. They boost the local economy, create jobs and opportunities, and are better for the environment.
According to a Groupon study, 86% of people have supported a small business during quarantine. With the rise of new strategies from owners, more people realize the importance of keeping these small businesses afloat.
Shopping small is the easiest way to support your local community and it doesn't have to be complicated either. Whether you're carless or on a budget, this post will show creative ways you can support small businesses!
Support Whenever, Wherever.
According to a Salesforce Research study, Consumers spend more time than usual browsing the internet, shopping online, and using social media prior to the pandemic. Not only is this great news for small businesses trying to reach a wider audience, but it allows consumers to shop at their own leisure.
With many stores open for in-person shopping, COVID-19 regulations may still be in place that will interfere with your shopping experience. Consider shopping from the comfort of your own home by shopping from a small business online.
Not only is this a great way to find exactly what you're looking for, but you can browse multiple sellers and find something in your budget! Websites such as Etsy, Amazon Handmade, and Depop have thousands of small businesses to shop from.
Tip: These websites also allow you to start your own business at little to no cost! You can make or resell your products and give your proceeds to a small business.
Like, Comment, and Share
People tend to “like” what they see. I know I'm not the only one who has spent too much time scrolling through visually pleasing Instagram shops to share with my friends at 2 A.M.!
Everyone loves a good recommendation, even if it’s as simple as clicking the ‘share’ button on social media. By sharing a post from your favorite small business, you are directly helping by attracting potential consumers.
People are inclined to browse an online store if they are intrigued by the products. By simply engaging with their posts to friends and family, you are doing a great favor by getting their products in front of more people.
Social media is also an amazing resource to connect with mutuals who share the same interests. Tag me on social media by using #HMLocal for a chance to feature your favorite small business on my platforms!
Attend Local Events
![](https://www.flickr.com/photos/diannbayes/34810659975/#x27;s Market"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/4199/34810659975_4799500979_o.jpg" width="6016" height="4000" alt="Concho Valley Farmer&)
Attending food truck events, craft shows, fairs, and pop-ups is a great way to discover new small businesses and support the ones you already love.
A great Orange County hotspot is called ‘Street Food Tuesday’ located in Cypress, California. With plenty of local food vendors to support, you will have no problem finding a hidden gem. Not only are you supporting local food businesses, but all the vendors pitch in to donate a portion of their proceeds to a local school every 1st of the month!
Local farmer's markets are also a great way to support small businesses. Big supermarket chains are infamous for convenient shopping, but it negatively affects small farming businesses. Buying directly from farmers gives them a better return on their produce, which gives them a better chance of operating in a globalized economy.
These are just a few of my favorite ways to support small businesses that are simple, yet effective! Don't forget to use the hashtag #HMLocal if you use any of these suggestions!
If you haven’t already, check out my post about the reasons why you should support small businesses!
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