How to help small businesses?

Helping small businesses is crucial for fostering local economies, creating jobs, and promoting innovation. Here are several ways individuals, communities, and governments can support small businesses:

1. Shop Local

Buy from small businesses instead of large chains or online giants whenever possible.

Choose local services (e.g., restaurants, salons, repair shops) over national franchises.

Gift cards from small businesses make great presents and provide immediate cash flow.

2. Promote Them Online

Leave positive reviews on Google, Yelp, or Facebook to boost their visibility.

Share their posts on social media to help them reach more customers.

Tag or mention them when posting about their products/services.

3. Support Small Business Events

Attend local farmers' markets, craft fairs, and pop-up shops.

Join community networking events where small businesses showcase their work.

4. Advocate for Small Businesses

Encourage local governments to reduce red tape and offer grants or tax incentives.

Support policies that lower rent costs or provide small business loans.

Vote for leaders who prioritise small business growth.

5. Collaborate & Partner

If you run a business, partner with other small businesses for cross-promotions.

Refer customers to other trusted small businesses in your network.

Join or create a local business alliance to strengthen collective influence.

6. Provide Financial Support

Use crowdfunding (GoFundMe, Kickstarter) to help struggling businesses.

Invest in local businesses if you have the means (e.g., through community funds).

Tip generously at small restaurants and service providers.

7. Offer Skills & Resources

Volunteer your expertise (marketing, accounting, web design) if you can.

Donate unused equipment or supplies to startups in need.

Mentor aspiring entrepreneurs through local programs.

8. Be Patient & Understanding

Small businesses may have longer wait times or limited stock—patience helps.

Provide constructive feedback instead of harsh criticism.

Recognise that every purchase makes a difference to their survival.

9. Encourage Corporate Responsibility

Urge larger companies to source from small suppliers.

-Support corporations that fund small business initiatives.

10. Government & Institutional Support

Advocate for small business grants, low-interest loans, and tax relief.

Push for affordable commercial spaces in urban planning.

Support small business education programs (financial literacy, digital skills).

Final Thoughts

Small businesses are the backbone of communities. By making conscious choices to support them, we help sustain local economies and foster entrepreneurship. Every little bit helps—whether it’s buying a coffee from a local shop or sharing their social media posts.

Would you like help finding the specific ways to support small businesses in your area? Foundry Accounting will help you save time and money through bookkeeping! Just send us a message!