How parents can support small businesses to build community
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There are nearly 32 million small businesses in the United States. However, many are overshadowed by competition from large corporations that often dominate the market landscape. But there can be a lot of power in shopping at local small businesses. As key influencers in their communities, parents have a unique opportunity to hand down the idea of local impact to our kids. By opting to shop at neighborhood stores, kids and families can help support their community livelihood. Here’s how you can help support small businesses and, by extension, their communities.
Shop local on Small Business Saturday
Celebrated on the Saturday after Thanksgiving each year, Small Business Saturday helps highlight and support small businesses during one of their most critical times - the holiday shopping season. It’s the perfect opportunity for families to find a participating small business and take a break from big-box stores while still supporting their community and local economy.
Spread the word on social media
Parents, many of whom belong to school organizations and local groups, have the potential to amplify their support for small businesses online. Sharing posts and leaving positive reviews can help local entrepreneurs gain visibility and attract new customers.
Participate in community events
Many local small businesses participate in community events such as fairs or festivals where they showcase their products and services. Parents can take their kids to these events, encouraging them to engage with different businesses and learn about the value of supporting local entrepreneurs.
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Consider gift cards for special occasions
For birthdays, holidays, or other special events, consider purchasing gift cards from small businesses as gifts. Investing in gift cards supports the business and allows the recipient to discover new products and experiences within their community.
Collaborate with local businesses
Parents who own small businesses can collaborate with other entrepreneurs in their community. Cross-promoting and working together can create a stronger network and attract more customers. Co-sponsoring school fundraisers is just one example of using the power of collaboration.
Choose quality over quantity
When shopping for products or services, parents can choose to prioritize quality over quantity by purchasing from smaller businesses. This not only supports the local economy but also encourages sustainable consumption habits.
Enlist your kids to help support small businesses
As parents, we have the opportunity to educate our kids about the value of diversifying shopping decisions, supporting local entrepreneurs, and the impact it has on their community. Consider involving them in relevant purchasing decisions at local businesses and give context as to why you’re making that choice. It might be walking to a local coffee shop or convenience store, shopping for clothing at a local thrift shop, or having a family meal at a new local non-chain restaurant once a week or once a month.
FAQs on how to support small businesses
Q: Why is it important to support small businesses?
A: Small businesses are the backbone of local economies and contribute to creating a strong and vibrant community. By supporting them, we can help promote entrepreneurship, create job opportunities, and encourage sustainable consumption habits while broadening our kids' tastes and minds.
Q: How can shopping at small businesses benefit my community?
A: When you shop at small businesses, more money stays within the local economy. This can lead to increased job opportunities, improved infrastructure, and a stronger sense of community.
Q: What is "Small Business Saturday"?
A: Small Business Saturday is an annual event that takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving to support local small businesses. It’s co-sponsored by the Small Business Administration.
Q: How can I use social media to support small businesses?
A: By sharing posts and leaving positive reviews, you can help increase the visibility of small businesses and attract new customers.
Q: How can I involve my kids in supporting small businesses?
A: You can take your kids to community events that showcase small businesses, encourage them to engage with different entrepreneurs, and explain why shopping at or working with these establishments is important.
Q: Can I collaborate with other small businesses in my community?
A: By cross-promoting and working together, you can create a stronger network and attract more customers by broadening your reach.
Q: How can I prioritize quality over quantity when shopping at small businesses?
A: Consider purchasing products or services from smaller businesses instead of larger chains that may encourage bulk purchasing, offering a more limited set of offerings, or relying more heavily on the shipment of products. This not only supports the local economy but can also encourage diversified and sustainable consumption habits.
Q: What are some other ways to support small businesses?
A: You can choose to purchase gift cards from small businesses for special occasions, spread the word about local businesses on social media, or participate in community events. Many small businesses also work with schools to offer discounts.
Q: How can supporting small businesses benefit my family?
A: Supporting small businesses is a form of investing in your community, which can often create a more vibrant and sustainable environment for your family and local neighborhoods.
Q: What values can I teach my kids by supporting small businesses?
A: By supporting small businesses, you can teach your kids the importance of community solidarity, personal empowerment, and responsible consumerism. It can also be a great introduction to the hard work and dedication that goes into running a small business. Every purchase from a small business can make a difference!
The simple choice to support small businesses can be an act of profound community building. The dollars you spend can also be a vote for local entrepreneurship and a direct investment in your local economy. Whether it's Small Business Saturday or any other day of the year, raising awareness, sharing on social media, and making conscious shopping choices can be a rewarding part of creating a smart, sustainable family budget.
Want more smart money tips and tricks? Visit the Greenlight Learning Center for helpful resources on all things family, finance, and fun.
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