Check out these tips to help you support small businesses in your community

May is National Small Business Month, a time to celebrate the significant impact small businesses have on our lives and well-being. By supporting them, you strengthen the local economy and foster a thriving, connected community. Supporting local businesses doesn’t have to be complicated, since there are many easy ways to make a difference. Here are some simple tips to help you champion small businesses this May and throughout the year!

1. Shop Local

When you’re ready to make a purchase, whether online or in person, consider the small businesses in your area. Supporting local shops, restaurants, and service providers not only helps them stay afloat, but it also keeps money circulating locally. Next time you’re deciding between a big-box store and a local business, consider the bigger picture. Even if it’s just one purchase, every dollar spent at a small business contributes to the growth and sustainability of your community.

2. Buy gift cards

By purchasing a gift card, you’re not only providing immediate financial support to the business, but you’re also giving the recipient the opportunity to discover local gems in your area. It’s a win-win: the business gets a boost, and the recipient gets the joy of exploring new, local establishments. Plus, gift cards are versatile. They can be used for anything from having lunch with a friend or fresh flowers to services like spas, salons, or local experiences. It’s a simple, thoughtful way to encourage others to support small businesses.

3. Share your support online

In today’s digital world, word-of-mouth can go a long way. Sharing your positive experiences with local businesses online is a powerful way to help them thrive. By leaving glowing, online reviews, you’re giving the business invaluable exposure and enhancing its reputation. Be specific about what made your experience special, whether it’s the quality of the products, the customer service, or the unique atmosphere. This gives new customers a sense of what to expect.

On social media, take it a step further by tagging local businesses when you visit them or when you’re enjoying their products. Sharing a photo or video and tagging them in your post helps spread the word in a more personal and engaging way.

4. Attend local events

Supporting small businesses is as simple as attending local events like farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and community festivals. For example, you can celebrate festival season right here in Central Pennsylvania by visiting the York State Fair, Harrisburg’s Kipona Festival, and the Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival. These gatherings offer a great platform for vendors, artists, and entrepreneurs to showcase their products, while providing you with unique, locally made goods and services. Local events create a vibrant atmosphere, fostering connections between residents and business owners.

5. Recommend small businesses

Word-of-mouth referrals are a powerful tool for small businesses, especially when they come from someone you trust. If you’ve had a great experience at a local restaurant, boutique, or service provider, tell a friend! By recommending these businesses, you’re giving your friends, co-workers, and loved ones the opportunity to discover something new. Suppose you’re traveling in an unfamiliar community, and you need to find a bite to eat. Nothing goes further than a local restaurant suggestion from someone you know and trust. Personal recommendations often carry more weight than an advertisement, and they can make all the difference in a small business’s success. Additionally, businesses will often reward you for referrals, such as Belco’s member referral program.

6. Hire small businesses

When you need services or products, consider hiring or purchasing from local small businesses. From home repairs to catering, small businesses often provide personalized, high-quality services that larger companies can’t match. Choosing local services helps build strong community connections and supports local jobs and entrepreneurship. By hiring small businesses, you’re not only getting tailored, attentive service, but you’re also contributing to the growth and sustainability of your local economy.

7. Collaborate with small businesses

If you’re a small business owner, consider partnering with other local businesses to boost visibility and drive growth. Collaborations can range from co-hosting events and cross-promoting on social media to offering joint promotions or pop-up shops. These partnerships help you reach new customers, share resources, create unique experiences that benefit both businesses, and build lasting connections with fellow entrepreneurs.

Small businesses are a major source of employment, providing jobs for a diverse range of people in your area. Supporting them means helping to create and sustain local jobs that contribute to the livelihood of individuals and families in your community. Unlike larger corporate chains, small businesses offer unique, personalized services and products that cater to the specific needs and preferences of the community. Spending locally helps preserve the individuality and character of your area while maintaining its vibrant culture. It’s more than simply making purchases from the corner store—it’s a vital investment in the well-being of your community.

Belco Community Credit Union, established in 1939, is dedicated to fostering the financial well-being of Pennsylvania residents by promoting financial literacy and collaborating with local nonprofits to support community development. As a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative, Belco prioritizes exceptional service and quality education for its employees and volunteers to guide members through every stage of their financial journey. When you choose Belco, you’re not just a customer—you’re a valued member of a community-focused institution.